KC KEELER

In 11 seasons as head coach of the University of Delaware football team K.C. Keeler led the Blue Hens to 86 wins and the 2003 NCAA 1-AA National Championship but after failing to make the playoffs in four of the last five seasons, Keeler has been fired.

“We appreciate the efforts and accomplishments of Coach Keeler in leading the Blue Hens football program,” said Eric Ziady in a press release. Ziady, the UD Director of Athletics and Recreation Services, started at Delaware in October. “However, at this important time in UD Athletics, and after thorough evaluation over the past two months, I believe a change of direction is needed in Delaware football. We must reinvigorate our program and reenergize our supporters as we lay the foundation for future success.”

The 2012 season ended with a four game losing streak, the longest for the Blue Hens since 1967, and a 5-6 record overall. It was the third losing season in Keeler’s 11 seasons. Keeler replaced the legendary Tubby Raymond as head coach after compiling an 88-21-1 in nine season as head coach of Rowan University. He played linebacker under Raymond from 1978-1980 and was on the 1979 NCAA Division II National Championship team.

Delaware will begin a nationwide search for a successor.