Miami Hurricanes Coach Randy Shannon Signs Four-year Deal

It took a while, a really, really long while, but University of Miami football fans finally know who their coach will be in 2011 and beyond. The same one as the past three seasons. After months, even years of waiting and wondering when and if he would get a contract extension, Randy Shannon has been rewarded with a new four-year contract, the university announced Wednesday night. Shannon was about to enter his final season of the original four-year deal."There's no other place I'd rather be than coaching Hurricanes football,'' Shannon said in a statement. "I'm excited about the momentum we continue to build and our strong recruiting classes. We have dedicated student-athletes and an experienced and committed coaching staff, a strong athletic program and the university leadership's support -- all important components consistent with long-term success''. The financial terms of the contract were not announced. It is believed Shannon started his first season as the coach in 2007 with a salary approaching $800,000 and made about $1 million in 2009. The Associated Press reported that Shannon's new salary will be ``around the midpoint'' of coaches in the Atlantic Coast Conference. Shannon, 44, is 21-17 since taking over the program after Larry Coker was dismissed. He finished 9-4 last season, with the Canes losing to Wisconsin in the Champs Sports Bowl. The 2010 season will be Shannon's 17th on the football staff at Miami. He was the defensive coordinator for six seasons, linebackers coach for five and defensive line coach and graduate assistant for one year apiece. In an e-mail to The Miami Herald, UM president Donna Shalala said having Shannon for four more years "means stability and reassures recruits and their families that Coach Shannon has a long-term commitment.'' As delighted as anyone to hear the news, UM quarterback Jacory Harris, who will enter his junior season with UM expected to be ranked in the Top 25.This is a great signing by the Miami Hurricanes, Randy Shannon is a great and upcoming coach in collegiate football and I think the Hurricanes have the necessary components to win a championship. The only thing there is left to do is for Shannon to go out there and earn his money by having a great run this next few years. Watch out University of Florida there might be a new powerhouse in Florida!