The following is a statement from Gov. Joe Manchin on this afternoon’s announcement that Rich Rodriguez will remain the Head Football Coach at West Virginia University:

I have known Rich Rodriguez for many years, and I am extremely pleased to hear that he has made the decision to stay at West Virginia University. West Virginia is working hard to compete at every level, and I know that Director of Athletics Ed Pastilong, the WVU Board of Governors and the entire administration of West Virginia University made every effort possible, while also keeping their budgetary guidelines in mind, to keep Rich at West Virginia. I have every confidence in their ability to continue to work as a team and to move West Virginia University and Mountaineer football forward.”