After 22 years as the Washburn University head football coach, Craig Schurig was dismissed from his position Monday, Nov. 18.
The decision came after the Ichabods ended the last two seasons with a cumulative five wins.
“We are grateful to Coach Schurig for his long-time commitment to this university. He has built a solid program at Washburn, recruiting talented players and coaches during his two decades here,” said Loren Ferre, Washburn University athletic director, in an interview with Washburn Athletics.
Under Schurig’s leadership, the Ichabods accumulated a 142-109 record and an MIAA Championship, earning him the title of the all-time winningest coach in Washburn football history.
“His commitment to excellence has laid a foundation for the future, and we appreciate all that Craig has done to advance our program, both on and off the field,” Ferre said.
Long-term plans have yet to be laid out for who will take over the head coach position. Meanwhile, Washburn has called on a former Ichabod linebacker, Zach Watkins, associate head coach and co-defensive coordinator, to fill Schurig’s place as the interim head coach effective immediately.
At this time, Watkins has declined to comment on the situation or speak with the media.
As the Ichabods look to turn things around next season under new leadership, players have voiced their opinions on where the search should end.
“We’re just hoping that Coach Watkins gets the spot [permanently] because what Coach Schurig brought in within this year is a complete team. We’re not missing anything,” said Teondre Carter, junior running back. “If they were to hire a head coach from somewhere else, I can’t promise that we’ll be [the best we could be].”
The legacy, reputation and program Schurig created throughout his tenure is sure to leave a lasting imprint on the history of Washburn football but the Ichabods are hopeful for the changes that may come even with this temporary assignment.
“I know Coach Watkins will show love to the players who work for what they want and a lot of these players on the team work hard to be here. They just haven’t really got to show out their talent yet,” Carter said.
Fans, players, and coaches wait for Washburn Athletics to take the next steps while the future of Ichabod football remains up in the air.
Edited by Jeremy Ford and Stuti Khadka
