Washington State athletic director Bill Moos confirmed Monday that the automatic rollover clause built into football coach Mike Leach’s contract will be in effect next year, extending him through the 2018 season.
When Leach reached a deal with the school in December of 2011, the terms of his employment included a rotating five-year agreement after Leach completed his second season in Pullman.
Monday Leach and Moos confirmed the provision after the Cougars improved to 5-5 (3-4 Pac-12) with a 24-17 upset road win against Arizona.
The deal’s language ensures that Leach always will be on a five-year contract unless he or Moos opts out of the deal. Both have used it as a talking point for recruits who may be wary that Leach will bolt when a more high-profile coaching job opens.
Leach said he isn’t going anywhere.
“I’d like to thank Bill Moos and President Floyd for extending my contract and giving me the opportunity to coach at Washington State,” said Leach. “The support we have received from students, fans, alumni and the administration has been tremendous and by the end of this year we will have facilities that rival anyone in the country.
“As I’ve said many times, my family and I are extremely happy at Washington State and love living in Pullman.”
In 12 seasons as a head coach, Leach has a 92-57 record, 10 bowl appearances and is one win from making the Cougars eligible for their first postseason trip since 2003. WSU hasn’t reached the five-win mark since 2007, nor six wins since 2006, though the latter season it wasn’t selected for a bowl game.
“Mike Leach has done a fabulous job in his short time at Washington State,” said Moos. “Extending his contract through the 2018 season will ensure a bright future for Cougar football. He has elevated the program on the field, in the community and in the classroom. I believe he is among the best college football coaches in America and is a fantastic fit in Pullman.”
Fans of legal jargon can take a closer look at Leach’s contract here.
<span class="dsq-postid" data-dsqidentifier="2169915 https://sportspressnw.wpengine.com/?p=2169915">1 Comment
Next year is going to be a good one. Go Cougs!