In what may be one of the fastest coaching searches ever, the University of Virginia formally introduced their new head coach Monday.
UVA officials started the press conference with lots of praise for outgoing coach Bronco Mendenhall. He unexpectedly announced plans to step away from the program earlier this month after six seasons in Charlottesville.
“He is one of the best human beings that I know," said athletic director Carla Williams. "And I hope that he will return to college football at some point. Our industry needs him.”
Tony Elliott now takes over the program. He helped lead the Clemson Tigers to six Atlantic Coast Conference titles and two national championships over the last decade.
Elliott talked about what drew him to Charlottesville.
“I chose UVA because I wanted to lead a program that was partnered with the university that had world-class academics," he explained. "I wanted to compete in the best conference in college athletics. And lastly, I wanted to be a part of a university and athletic department that would not compromise its values to win.”
The school is also looking at upgrading some of its football facilities – an important factor in helping Elliott recruit players to UVA.
The University of Virginia is a financial supporter of RADIO IQ.
This report, provided by Virginia Public Radio, was made possible with support from the Virginia Education Association.
