Football Southern Conference

Chattanooga?s Allison Will Not Return Following 2008 Season

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn.---The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga announced Tuesday that the contract of Head Football Coach Rodney Allison will not be renewed at the end of the 2008 season.  Allison will remain as head coach for the remainder of the season.

 

In his sixth season as head coach of the Mocs, Allison took over a program that had internal questions in regards to academic and character issues upon his arrival.  Since that time, the program has gained solid ground academically, while making great strides in the community.

 

Allison is 17-47 in five-plus seasons with a current record of 1-7.  His best season came in 2005 when the Mocs went 6-5.

 

The Mocs are in the midst of an off week before returning to action Nov. 1 at Western Carolina.  There are four games remaining in the season with two on the road (WCU, The Citadel) and two at home (App State, Samford).

 

 

ADMINISTRATION STATEMENTS

 

Rick Hart, Director of Intercollegiate Athletics

“A variety of factors influenced my decision.  The on-field performance does not match the off-field productivity.  This was a very difficult decision because we are not a ?win at all costs’ department and Rodney Allison is a ?change agent.’  He changed the culture surrounding our football program by restoring our internal priorities ? academics and the personal development of our student-athletes.  The academic profile of our program is stronger than it has ever been and our student-athletes are visibly engaged with our community.  These are traits we value.  Coach Allison, his staff and our student-athletes have much to be proud of, and because of their collective efforts, the future of UTC football is very bright.”

 

Dr. Roger Brown, Chancellor

“I want to thank Coach Rodney Allison for his service to UTC.  He has led our football program with integrity, and I wish him all the best. I have confidence in Athletics Director Rick Hart in what I know has been a difficult decision. I know that when the time is appropriate, Rick will begin the process of finding a new coach to lead our Mocs football program.”