WSU coach Leach gets five-year extension
Washington State gave coach Mike Leach a contract extension through the end of the 2018 season, athletic director Bill Moos announced Monday.
The Cougars are within reach of a bowl game for the first time since 2003. They are 5-5 after beating Arizona on Saturday and have Utah and Washington left on their schedule.
The five wins are the most for Washington State at this point of the season since 2006.
"Mike Leach has done a fabulous job in his short time at Washington State," Moos said in a statement. "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."
Leach's five-year deal includes a rollover clause that had to be agreed to by both parties before Dec. 31 of this -- his second -- season. The rollover clause adds one year to the contract at the end of each season, giving him a standing five-year deal.
"I'd like to thank Bill Moos and President (Elson S.) Floyd for extending my contract and giving me the opportunity to coach at Washington State," Leach said in a statement. "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."
Washington State is 8-14 under Leach since he took over as coach in 2012.
