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Gator Fans:
You have all probably by now heard the news about the University Athletic Association mutually parting ways with Coach McElwain.
There have been a lot of rumors and speculation about the details of the announcement, so I wanted to give some background on the process.
Sunday morning I began conversations for the first time with Coach McElwain and his representation about Coach Mac’s future. By early evening, we had reached the decision to mutually part ways. Out of respect to Coach McElwain, I will keep those conversations between me, him and his representatives private.
We appreciate the way Coach McElwain has handled this and I want to thank him for his time and effort serving as our football coach.
On Sunday, I also met with Randy Shannon and asked him to serve as our interim head coach moving forward and he accepted that offer. We are very fortunate to have someone like Coach Shannon on our staff during a time like this.
We also met with the team and then the coaching staff. These are difficult times for those involved, including the families.
Our student-athletes are always our top priority, especially during unusual circumstances like this. In my meeting with the team, I told the players that the athletic department did not release anything about Coach McElwain until I talked to them face to face.
Moving forward, I am confident that Coach Shannon and our staff will provide the guidance our program needs the remainder of the season. I know our players and coaches are anxious to get on the field and compete against Missouri.
Our search for the next head coach of the University of Florida begins immediately. The search is my responsibility, but I will utilize my contacts and relationships to help us find the best coach for the Gators. I will do everything I can to keep the search process and details confidential. We all understand that rumors tend to run rampant during these situations, and because of that, a lot of what you read and hear will not be accurate. It will not be practical to respond to every rumor. I ask for everyone’s patience as we go through this process and at some point, I will stand up in front of a podium and announce the next head coach at the University of Florida.
At the University of Florida, we have all of the resources here to be successful. We aim to deliver a championship experience with integrity and our goal is to have across the board excellence in everything we do. We have a passionate, supportive fan base, our student-athletes will get an education from a top-10 public institution and we have all the support services for them to excel both on and off the field.
I also want everyone involved with the program, the fans, the players, coaches and staff to have fun.
We are very thankful for your support and appreciate the many ways that provide that support, from buying a ticket to one of our events, wearing Orange and Blue, hanging a flag on your porch or simply saying, "Go Gators!"
Scott Stricklin
@ScottStricklin
This same as his presser basically but thought some of you might be interested. Sorry if this is already up.
