PULLMAN — A capacity crowd of more than a thousand students and fans were on hand as Washington State University today introduced Mike Leach as the new Cougars' head football coach.
Leach, who agreed in principle to a five-year contract, was introduced to reporters and fans at a news conference this afternoon in Pullman.
"I came back to Washington State University to go to the Rose Bowl,” said WSU athletic director Bill Moos. "The man who is going to take us there, is to my left, Mike Leach…”
The introduction was greeted with a tremendous ovation by Cougar fans.
Leach brings a proven record of winning to Pullman. In 10 seasons as a head coach, all at Texas Tech (2000-09), his program earned 10 bowl bids. In addition, the Susanville, Calif., native who was raised in Cody, Wyo., recorded a school-record 84 victories during his tenure.
When asked "Why Washington State University,” Coach Leach answered, "the commitment to excellence in every phase of the university, the excitement around the community, and that fact that you can win here and win big I believe.”
During his tenure at Texas Tech, his offense led the nation in passing six times and three times accumulated the most total yards. In 2009, the Red Raiders were second in passing offense and fourth in total offense with both marks tops among BCS conference schools.
In 2008, Texas Tech set a program record with 11 regular-season wins while tying the overall victory record. The Red Raiders were ranked as high as second in the nation and four student-athletes earned All-America first-team status.
"I'm thrilled to be back coaching. I've enjoyed my two years, but that's a different dimension than coaching offers,” said Leach. "There's nothing like the unity and working together with the team. You've got players, you've got coaches, and fans building a program into the best it can be with everybody doing the best they can. I think that ‘one for all and all for one' is the part you miss the most.”
Leach has received three national coach of the year awards, the Woody Hayes Award, the Howie Long/Field Turf Coach of the Year and George Munger Award. Quarterback Graham Harrell and wide receiver Michael Crabtree finished fourth and fifth, respectively in the Heisman Trophy voting.
During his remarks, Leach spoke of the great coaches that had come before him at WSU, and of the strong program he now has the distinction to lead.
"I'm excited to be here, and I'm excited to stay here,” he said.
Leach told the crowd he plans to be on the job as early as this weekend.
