University of Southern Mississippi Athletics
Bower Receives Contract Extension
8/15/2001 12:00:00 AM | Football
Bower Receives Contract Extension
Hattiesburg, Miss. - The University of Southern Mississippi Head Football Coach Jeff Bower has received a one-year extension of his contract, Athletic Director Richard Giannini announced today.
Bower's contract now will run through the 2004 season, while all other terms and conditions of the contract remain the same, according to Giannini. Bower sees the move as a positive step. "I think it sends a message to a lot of prospects out there," he said. "I'm grateful and appreciative. I continue to enjoy my stay here, and I look forward to at least another four years."
An extension is subject to formal approval by the Board of Trustees of the Institutions of Higher Learning, and the contract represents the maximum length allowed by the Board.
Bower's association with Southern Miss has been both lengthy and successful. Including his playing days as a Golden Eagle, Bower has been with the University almost 25 years, and his tenure as head coach, which now is in its 11th season, is unparalleled in Southern Miss football history. Behind only Thad "Pie" Vann, Bower (67-47-1, .576) is the second winningest coach in Golden Eagle history, and has guided his team to bowl games and top 25 rankings more frequently than any of his predecessors. That success also has helped generate greater national recognition and prominence for the Southern Miss football than at any other point in its 85-year history.
His importance to the program also is not lost on Giannini, who says its just understood that Bower's contract rolls over to four years every year. "He's (Bower) one of the great football coaches in the country," Giannini said. "He's recognized not only by his peers but also by many publications as one of the top coaches in the country. We're just pleased that he continues his commitment and loyalty to his alma mater."
