University of Pittsburgh Athletics
A Message from Athletic Director Steve Pederson
1/7/2011 12:00:00 AM | Football
Jan. 7, 2011
To the fans and supporters of Pitt football:
With the events of the past week, we felt it was important to write you to discuss those events and the direction we will be taking into the future.
The past several days have been difficult for everyone who cares deeply about the Pitt football program. We are very cognizant of the fact that many of you are disappointed, upset and hurt. The University of Pittsburgh is a proud institution and Pitt football is one of its most cherished traditions. As athletic director I take my role in helping to uphold and enhance that tradition very seriously.
The decision to dismiss Michael Haywood as our football coach was made after very careful consideration. Ultimately, we determined that moving forward with him as our coach was not possible under the circumstances. Our head coaches rank among Pitt’s most visible representatives and we expect only the highest standards of personal conduct from them. The people of Pitt – and especially our student-athletes – deserve nothing less.
This has resulted in a period of adversity for our program. We are strong believers that with adversity comes opportunity, and we are committed to ensuring that we take advantage of the opportunities we have coming out of these difficult circumstances.
As we write you, we have already embarked on our search for a new head football coach. Time is of the essence but we will move prudently to find the right leader for our program. We truly believe this is one of the best coaching positions in the country – a tremendous football tradition and world-class academics centered in one of America’s finest cities.
This search will be conducted with a team effort. I will be joined by Executive Vice Chancellor Jerry Cochran and Executive Associate Athletic Director Donna Sanft to conduct initial candidate interviews. A smaller number of candidates will be invited to participate in further discussions, which will include a meeting with Chancellor Mark Nordenberg.
It is my personal and professional pledge to you, the loyal fans and supporters of the University of Pittsburgh, that we will find the right man to lead Pitt football. Our belief that this program can, and will, compete for championships on an annual basis has not wavered and we are committed to bringing that championship vision to fruition.
Thank you for time, support and dedication to the University of Pittsburgh.
Sincerely,
Steve Pederson
Athletic Director
