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Inside Iowa State, a newspaper for faculty and staff, is published by the Office of University Relations.

Dec. 8, 2006

Chizik brings Texas, Florida ties to football

by ISU Athletics Communications

Gene Chizik, the assistant head coach at the University of Texas whose resume includes a national championship with the Longhorns and league championships in three different conferences, is the new Cyclone head football coach, effective Nov. 27.

"Gene Chizik is about winning championships," athletics director Jamie Pollard said in introducing the 21-year coaching veteran. "He has a thorough understanding of what's involved in building a championship program. He has had an integral role on teams that won national, conference and conference playoff titles."

Chizik agreed to a six-year deal worth $6.75 million in guaranteed compensation with incentives that could increase the total to more than $10 million. In addition, Iowa State agreed to provide Chizik a guaranteed package of $1.5 million plus incentives to compensate his assistant coaches, which is the third-highest assistant coach package in the Big 12.

"It's been a lifetime professional dream to be the CEO of a football program and I couldn't be more pleased that Iowa State University is the institution providing me this opportunity," Chizik said. "I've had great mentors to learn from in my career, and I am fully prepared and energized to begin my Cyclone tenure.

"The institutional commitment being made by Iowa State was critical in my decision. I value integrity, loyalty and leadership. Dr. Geoffroy, Jamie (Pollard) and the other staff I've met have operated with class and dignity. That is my expectation for the Iowa State football program, too."

For the past two years, the 44-year-old Chizik served as assistant head coach and co-defensive coordinator at Texas. The Longhorns won the 2005 national championship -- along with the Big 12 regular-season and playoff titles -- with a 13-0 record.

Prior to his appointment at Texas, Chizik was defensive coordinator at Auburn for three seasons as the Tigers compiled a 30-9 overall record. Auburn was undefeated (13-0) and ranked No. 2 in both major polls in 2004 when Chizik won the Frank Broyles Award, honoring the nation's top assistant coach.

Chizik also coached at Central Florida (1998-2001), Stephen F. Austin (1992-97) and Middle Tennessee State (1990-91). He played football at the University of Florida.

Geoffroy said he likes Chizik's overall approach to managing the program.

"Gene's emphasis on the academic and athletics achievements of our student-athletes is inspiring," Geoffroy said. "He embraces the critical responsibilities of leading 100-plus young men and uniting our Cyclone support base. Gene's success, especially at a peer institution in the Big 12, will pay great dividends."

Chizik earned his B.A. degree in education from Florida (1985) and his M.A. in guidance and counseling from Clemson (1991). A native of Clearwater, Fla., Chizik and his wife Jonna have twin daughters, Landry and Kennedy, and a son, Cally.

Gene Chizik

Gene Chizik has a six-year contract to lead the Cyclone football program. Photo by Bob Elbert.

Quote

"I value integrity, loyalty and leadership. Dr. Geoffroy, Jamie (Pollard) and the other staff I've met have operated with class and dignity. That is my expectation for the Iowa State football program, too."

Gene Chizik