Andersen Quits….Heads to Oregon State

Statement from the University of Wisconsin…

MADISON, Wis. — Gary Andersen informed the Wisconsin football team at a team meeting at 4 p.m. on Wednesday that he was taking the head coaching job at Oregon State University. UW Director of Athletics Barry Alvarez has immediately started a national search for a new head football coach.

 

“I began working to find a new head coach as soon as I spoke with Gary this morning,” Alvarez said. “My first concern is taking care of the players on the current team, especially the senior class, and ensuring that their bowl experience is a memorable one. I will find a head coach to uphold the great tradition at Wisconsin, someone who is committed to excellence both on and off the field.

 

“I want to thank Gary for his two years here and commend him on the way his team performed on the field, in the classroom and in the community. I wish him the best at Oregon State.”

 

Alvarez will meet with the media at a news conference today beginning at 5:15 p.m. at the Camp Randall Media Room.

 

“First and foremost I want to thank Coach Alvarez for the opportunity to coach at the University of Wisconsin,” Andersen said. “I also want to thank my staff and the people at UW. We worked very hard together and accomplished some great things. I had the opportunity to meet and coach some great young men and I look forward to watching them as they continue their careers and move through life.”

 

Statement from UW-Madison Chancellor Rebecca Blank:

“We wish Gary Andersen well at Oregon State University and thank him for his service to our student-athletes, the campus community and the State of Wisconsin.

 

“I look forward to working with Barry Alvarez as he selects the next coach of the Wisconsin Badgers.”