Dale Lennon Out As SIU Football Coach

Southern Illinois University Carbondale is in search of a new football coach.

Following a comprehensive review of the football program, Saluki director of athletics Tommy Bell dismissed head coach Dale Lennon Monday, with one year remaining on Lennon's contract.
Lennon addressed his future on his radio show November 16th. He said he wanted to remain the Salukis' coach, but realized he needed to win more. In the end, Lennon said he was proud of how he ran the program.

"The thing that I think I've been able to do and maintain this year is we've done things the right way. We've been consistent with our policies within the team."

The season featured the suspension of All-Missouri Valley Conference return specialist Daquan Isom and the dismissal of defensive end Adam Brandt.

In a written statement following his dismissal on Monday, Lennon said"It is with deep disappointment and sadness that I leave Southern Illinois University. It has been a privilege to coach this team. I have greatly appreciated the support of so many members of the SIU administration, athletic department, faculty and staff, alumni and student body. Thank you all for your work with the football program through the years. Thank you to the citizens of Carbondale and the surrounding area for your support of Saluki Football as well.

"I have had the privilege of working with a number of great coaches during my time here, and I want to thank them sincerely for their efforts to coach and lead the young men on our football team. We have all tried to lead with honesty, integrity, and hard work.

"To our Saluki football players, I want to say that it has been an honor to be your coach. I have learned from you, as you have developed as athletes and future leaders. Thank you for doing your best, doing what is right, and giving your all. I have loved being your coach."

Lennon, who took over the program after Jerry Kill left for Northern Illinois following the 2007 season, won 51 games in eight seasons. His first two teams advanced to the playoffs, but his final six teams all fell short of the postseason.

The Salukis finished 2015 with a record of 3-8....the worst record in Lennon's 19 seasons as a head coach at three different schools and the Salukis' worst single season record since 2001.

Under the terms of Lennon's contract, which paid him an annual salary of nearly $221,000, he will receive a $55,000 buyout.

Bell says a search for a new head coach will begin immediately.