The K.C. Keeler era is over in Blue Hen football.
The man who succeeded Hall of Fame coach Tubby Raymond in 2002 when Raymond retired after 300 career victories was fired Monday by the University of Delaware.
The 53 year old Keeler was dismissed after 11 seasons at the helm. His final record with the school is 86-52 record with a national championship in 2003 and two additional title game appearances in 2008 and 2010. But Athletic Director Eric Ziady, hired last October, decided it is time for a change.
“The 86 wins and the 2003 National Championship will forever be etched in the hearts and minds of the Blue Hen faithful, and I thank Coach for his commitment to his alma mater. “However, at this important time in UD Athletics, and after thorough evaluation over the past two months, I believe a change of direction is needed in Delaware football. We must reinvigorate our program and re-energize our supporters as we lay the foundation for future success." Ziady said in a statement.
The Blue Hens have been less successful in recent years. The Blue Hens failed to reach the NCAA playoffs in four of the last five seasons and their record the last two years was just 12-10. In 2012, a 4-0 start disintegrated into a 5-6 finish that included a four game slide to end the season, the team's longest losing streak since 1967.
UD officials say a national search for a new head coach will begin immediately. The new coach could be at an immediate disadvantage based on the timing of Delaware's decision. National signing day for football recruits is just one month away.
Still, UD president Patrick Harker, in his own statement, backed the move.
“On behalf of the University, I want to thank Coach Keeler for his service to our institution and we wish him the best in his future endeavors,” Harker said. “I fully support Eric’s [Ziady] decision and I am confident that we will attract an outstanding coach to continue to write the Delaware football legacy."
