Nov. 18, 2003

Columbia, S.C. – The University of South Carolina announced Tuesday that it had extended the contract of head football coach Lou Holtz for an additional season, keeping the agreement at a five-year term.

The Gamecocks can qualify for their third post-season bowl berth under Coach Holtz with a victory this Saturday. Carolina has come close this season to knocking off three top 15 ranked opponents, dropping close decisions to Tennessee (in overtime), Ole Miss and Florida by a total of eight points. The Gamecocks have an abundance of young talent, with only five seniors listed on this week’s 22-man starting lineup.

“The future could not be more promising for the Carolina football program,” said Mike McGee, Director of Athletics. “After back-to-back top 10 recruiting classes, there is still work to be done towards achieving the goal of becoming a championship-caliber program. We have full confidence that under Coach Holtz’s leadership, this goal can be accomplished.”

“Coach Holtz provides the type of personal leadership that makes all of us proud,” said Dr. Andrew Sorensen, USC President. “He is a tremendous ambassador for Carolina and we certainly value his continued association as our head football coach.”