LaVell is here to stay
(BYU) Daily Universe 23Sep99 S2
By Dave Sellers: NewsNet Sports Writer

In spite of continuing speculation about who would replace BYU football head-coach LaVell Edwards, BYU has put the question to rest for now. Edwards and BYU signed a contract Wednesday that will keep him as head coach for the next five years.

"LaVell Edwards put BYU football on the map," said BYU President Merrill J. Bateman said. "There are many rumors and reports circulating that he is ready to retire. We are pleased to announce that he has agreed to coach the Cougars for several more years."

Edwards, who is 68 years old, is currently the eighth-winningest active Division-I coach in the NCAA, ranked by winning percentage (72.6%) and is seventh all-time among Division-I coaches when ranked by number of career victories (245). During his career with the Cougars, Edwards has won 18 conference championships, played in 21 bowl games. In 1984 he won the NCAA National Coach of the Year award and the Cougars won the National Championship.

BYU's coaches and players were happy with the news. "He's the one that built this program," said linebacker Rob Morris said. "This means five more years of success at BYU." Val Hale, BYU's Athletic Director, said, "I am thrilled that Coach Edwards will continue at the helm of the BYU football program. This announcement should send a clear message to recruits and fans that BYU football will continue its winning ways into the next century. LaVell's influence will help the program both on and off the field as we prepare for new projects and challenges the next decade and century will bring."