MISSOULA — The University of Montana has extended the contract of head football coach Mick Delaney for another year, through the 2014 season, athletic director Kent Haslam announced Wednesday.
Delaney is in the second year of a two-year contract. The Grizzlies have posted a 10-2 record this season and are seeded eighth in the FCS playoffs after winning seven of their last eight games.
“It’s such a humbling experience, and the day before Thanksgiving I have so much to be thankful for,” said Delaney, who notified the team about the extension following practice Wednesday morning. “Where I am at in my career, and to be able to stay at the University of Montana one more year, is just almost unbelievable.”
Delaney has been in the coaching profession for more than 40 years, including 29 at the college level.
He said he’s excited to continue working with his coaching staff.
“I think we’ve got some really good things going here between the players and the coaching staff — they all work so hard and they’re all so together. We’re going to continue to what we did this year. I know we’re going to be competitive every time we step on the field. I just couldn’t be happier.”
Haslam said he appreciates Delaney and the coaching staff and all their hard work.
“It has been a great season both on and off the field,” Haslam said in a statement. “The student-athletes and coaches have brought playoff football back to Missoula and continue to focus on not only their development as football players, but also as students, role models, and members of the community.”
The Grizzlies will host the winner of this weekend’s game between Bethune-Cookman and Coastal Carolina on Dec. 7.
Delaney’s contract, which is to run through Jan. 31, 2015, must still be approved by the state Board of Regents.