A Fresh Start for Rutgers Football

A Fresh Start for Rutgers Football

By Sam Gallo

After too many headlines and little successful results, Rutgers Football has made major changes in their program.  University President Robert Barchihas made a huge decision when he chose to fire Kyle Floods, head coach, and athletic director Julie Hermann.  Barchihas released a statement titled “Change in Athletics at Rutgers-New Brunswick” at 2:36 p.m. on November 29, 2015 explaining his decision. In the statement, Barchihas addressed his message to the Rutgers community explaining his actions. “I [am] exercising the university’s right to terminate their contracts without cause and that I am relieving them of their duties effective immediately”, the President stated. “Our continued struggles on the field combined with several off the field issues have convinced me that we need new leadership of our football program”.

Reaction to the removal of two key members of the Rutgers University Football program has caused mixed reactions in students and players. Devoted football fan and junior at WHHS, Joseph Fraunberger, explains his thoughts.  “It was clear to everyone that the program needed a change”, Fraunberger states. “A fresh start will be beneficial to everyone involved”.  Despite former coach Floods loyalty to the Rutgers community for over a decade, and Hermann’s dedication in her short two seasons with the program, both positions have already been replaced. For the time being, Norries Wilson will serve as the Interim Head Coach to lead the off-season program.  Patrick Hobbs, Dean Emeritus of the Seton Hall University School of Law and former athletic director at Seton Hall will be replacing Hermann as well as assisting in the search for a permanent head coach.