A short while ago, Ian Furness over at KJR came through with the news that Mike Leach had signed a contract with Washington State. The university has now officially released the news, and Leach has been named the head coach.
From the release:
Washington State University announced Wednesday that Mike Leach has been named the Cougars' head football coach. Leach, who agreed in principle to a five-year contract, will be introduced at a press conference Tuesday, Dec. 6 at noon in Pullman.
President Elson Floyd offered a ringing endorsement of the hire:
"I asked athletic director Bill Moos to select the best head football coach in the country and I am convinced that he has done exactly that," said WSU President Elson S. Floyd.
Bill Moos rehashed much of what he had said in the press conference yesterday:
"This is an exciting day for Washington State University and Cougar football," said Moos. "I have spoken about the need to re-energize our fan base and take Cougar football to the next level. I believe the hiring of Mike Leach accomplishes both of those goals. His credentials speak for themselves."
They certainly do, Bill, they certainly do. I'm still a little in shock that this has happened, and it is awesome to hear that pen has touched paper. This is a historic day for Washington State University Athletics. Moos is doing all he can to make sure we aren't the doormat, and he is exceeding all of our expectations.