UNDER THE BANNER
What's Going On In and Around Black College Sports
TWO SWAC COACHES OUT: Texas Southern head football coach
Bill Thomas and Arkansas-Pine Bluff head football coach
Lee Hardman both announced their resignations last week bringing
to three the number of SWAC West Division coaches
leaving their posts following the 2003 season. Earlier,
C. L. Whittington was released after only one year at
Prairie View A&M. TSU Associate Athletic Director
Ricky Holden will assume the administrative duties for Thomas until
the position is filled. Thomas recorded four winning seasons
in his 10-year coaching career at TSU where he compiled a
49-58 overall record. He has a career record as a head coach
of 84-82-3. Prior to his tenure, the University had not had
a winning season since 1977. career record of 84-82-3.
"I would like to thank Coach Thomas for his
outstanding commitment and accomplishments," Athletic Director
Alois Blackwell said. "We are looking forward to using
his foundation to build a strong program." Blackwell said
a nationwide search for a new head coach will begin
immediately. Hardman will assume a "yet to be determined"
administrative position at UAPB. The Golden Lions finished
4-7 this year, giving Hardman a 28-33 overall record in six
years at UAPB.
© 2003 Azeez Communications, Inc.