By John Nestor

Tucson, AZ

University of Arizona director of athletics Greg Byrne announced Monday that football coach Mike Stoops has been relieved of his duties.

Byrne announced that defensive coordinator Tim Kish will serve as the interim head coach for the remainder of the season.

Stoops was hired in November 2004 and inherited a two-win team. He restored respectability to the program but a recent slide spelled the end of his tenure in the desert.

Arizona got off to a 7-1 start last season before imploding and has never recovered.

The Wildcats lost their last five games, including a 36-10 blowout by Oklahoma State in the Alamo Bowl, and then thier last five this season after a win over FCS Northern Arizona in the season opener.

The final nail was the Wildcats' loss on Saturday to previously winless Oregon State, 37-27. It was Arizona's 10th straight loss to an FBS school.

Stoops' record in eight seasons at Arizona was 41-50, with a 27-38 mark in league games.

"We're appreciative of Mike's dedicated work for the Arizona Wildcats," Byrne said. "Coach Stoops had many successes as our head coach over the last eight seasons. It was a difficult decision but I feel now is the time for new leadership and direction."

Kish, 57, has been the defensive coordinator throughout Stoops' tenure in Tucson.

"Today is tough day for the program. It's an important moment, for sure," Kish said. "I appreciate Greg's faith in me to provide leadership to our young men during this difficult time. I've been with Coach Stoops for each of his eight years here and know that we have a strong foundation for not only the future but for our immediate tasks.

"I know this coaching staff will work hard and support our players as we compete for the remainder of the season. We're here to help these players succeed."

 

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Arizona Fires Football Coach Mike Stoops After 1-5 Start