In case you live under a rock, or (more likely) spent your winter break on some exotic vacation isolated from WiFi *gasp*, some pretty big things have happened in the world of Michigan Athletics. From the die-hard fans that stay through the last quarter in the coldest of temperatures, to those whose idea of supporting the team is to just throw on a maize shirt on Saturday morning, every collegiate now has a reason to be excited about Michigan’s new football coach, James ‘Jim’ Harbaugh.
As a Michigan alumnus himself, Harbaugh already has personal interest in the team’s success. After this season’s repeated disappointing performances, a fresh and experienced face is exactly what our team needs.
Offered a maximum salary of $8 million a year from the University of Michigan Athletic Department, Harbaugh was set up to be the highest paid college football coach if he chose to accept the offer. Upon acceptance of the position, Harbaugh rejected the salary and settled for one identical to that of his with the San Francisco 49ers: $5 million a year, including incentives. Michigan interim Athletic Director Jim Hackett reported that Harbaugh was never interested in being the highest paid coach in the Big Ten, but instead would rather put more money towards hiring new assistants.
This action epitomizes the heart and spirit that radiates from Michigan and why we have one of the largest and most dedicated alumni systems in the world. It’s obvious that Harbaugh is not in it for the money, but instead has genuine interest in recovering our fallen football program (Though I don’t know anyone who would complain about only $5 million a year anyways). Harbaugh was officially hired as of December 30, 2014.
In addition to the hiring of Harbaugh, Michigan is excited to welcome their newest Defensive Coordinator/Linebackers Coach D.J. Durkin and Offensive Coordinator/Offensive Line Coach Tim Drevno, both official as of January 8, 2015.
So, while many of us Wolverines are guilty of neglecting our season tickets this past year, it’s time to uncover that optimism and get excited—less than 245 days until Gameday in Ann Arbaugh.
Photo Courtesy of CBS Sports