Hawkins to return for fifth season


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By Tim Griffin
ESPN.com
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Colorado has announced that Dan Hawkins will continue to coach the Buffaloes and return for his fifth season next year.
Hawkins and his team met with Colorado athletic director Mike Bohn and Colorado chancellor Philip DiStefano Thursday morning where they were informed of his decision. The team was completing its walkthrough practice before its game Friday against Nebraska.
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Hawkins' job status had come under heavy scrutiny as the Buffaloes have posted a 3-8 season, although three of their losses have come by seven points or less. They will miss a bowl trip for the third time in Hawkins' four-season tenure coaching them and were the first Big 12 team eliminated from bowl consideration.
Despite those struggles, Bohn said that Hawkins will remain Colorado's coach.
"Dan is our coach," said Bohn. "We continue to have candid, constructive discussions with each other, with campus leadership and with related constituents to review all aspects of the football program. We recognize the importance of continuity to reach our desired competitive results. We have made progress on many fronts, but fully realize the importance of improvement and growth of the program in all areas."
Several published reports indicate it would cost Colorado more than $3 million to fire Hawkins.
Hawkins' contract with CU runs through the 2012 season; he originally signed a five-year agreement when hired prior to the 2006 season, and received an extension in October 2008.
Tim Griffin covers college sports for ESPN.com. You may contact him at espntimgriff@yahoo.com


Dan Hawkins to remain coach at Colorado in 2010 - ESPN