MOUNT PLEASANT (November 16) -- Central Michigan University head football coach Dick
Flynn announced his resignation today, effective Nov. 22.
Flynn is in his sixth season as the Chippewa mentor and is completing
his 22nd campaign with the CMU football program. He came to Central in
1978 as the defensive
coordinator and served in that position for 16 years.
A native of Mount Pleasant, Flynn replaced Herb Deromedi as head coach
on April 25, 1994 when Deromedi became Central Michigan's athletic
director.
"It's been a very difficult decision but in the best interest in the
program, I feel at this time I should give up my position as football
coach at the end of the season,"
Flynn said. "It helps take away a cloud of uncertainty as we prepare for
the final two games and it's in the best interest of the football
players and administration so a
search can begin immediately for a new coach."
The Chippewas, 2-7 for the season, play Eastern Michigan at home on
Saturday, Nov. 13, and close the season at Ball State on Saturday, Nov.
20.
Flynn led Central to a Mid-American Conference (MAC) championship in
1994 with a 9-3 record and was named "Coach of the Year."
CMU has had four losing seasons in the five years since, however, and
Flynn's record is now 28-37.
"It's disappointing not to have achieved many of the goals that we set,"
Flynn said. "But, the experience of 22 years at Central Michigan have
been the best for my
family and me. I greatly appreciate the support from the campus, the
community and Chippewa fans everywhere.
"I feel most fortunate to have worked with an outstanding staff. I've
had great coaches and their families who have been loyal to the program.
I have tremendous pride
and respect for the dedication and effort of our players both on and off
the field, and believe very strongly they and CMU football have a great
future."
Deromedi agreed the timing was important.
"There is never a good time for everyone involved," Deromedi said.
"However, by Dick's resigning at this time it gives the administration a
window of opportunity to
have someone in place before our student-athletes leave for winter
break.
"I want to commend Dick for the manner in which he and his players have
conducted themselves during his tenure as head coach. He's been a part
of Central Michigan
football for more than 20 years and his contributions as an assistant
and head coach have been noteworthy."
Flynn and his wife, Mary, live in Mount Pleasant and have two grown
daughters, Kelly and Katie.