December 19, 2024

Looking ahead for WSU Football

By President Kirk Schulz
Washington State University

I want to take a moment to thank Coach Jake Dickert for his contributions to Washington State University and our football program. This season has been one to remember, with remarkable moments on and off the field that have made our university community proud. While we wish Coach Dickert well in his next chapter, we look forward to starting a new era of Cougar football under new leadership.

Here at Washington State University, we know that football is more than a game — it’s a source of pride, connection, and tradition for our students, alumni, and fans. Since the breakdown of the historic Pac-12 Conference in 2023, WSU has strived to ensure continuity of experience and quality of play, but we recognize that the changes we’ve experienced as a result have had an impact on you, the fans.

I don’t think it’s incorrect to say that WSU has been subject to the very best and the very worst of the current state of intercollegiate athletics. From conference realignment to the introduction of NIL to the transfer portal, there are elements in play that create tremendous opportunities for players and universities alike. But with every opportunity comes the potential for consequences — especially in the absence of any national regulation — and this community has felt the weight of those consequences acutely.

However, I believe there are tremendous opportunities in store for WSU, too. For the first time in our history, we have the chance to shape our own destiny in helping to rebuild the Pac-12. We’re also fortunate to see growing community-based support around athletics, with the Cougar Collective able to offer a seven-figure deal that wasn’t possible even just last year. And with the guidance of Pac-12 Commissioner Teresa Gould and WSU Athletic Director Anne McCoy, we have the right leaders in place at the right time to help get us where we need to be.

Our commitment to excellence in athletics remains unwavering. We are confident in our ability to identify and hire outstanding coaches who believe in our vision for success and will lead our student-athletes to even greater achievements. We just ask that you believe in us too. To our incredible fans and supporters, thank you for your passion and dedication. Your energy fuels our teams and inspires our entire university community. We look forward to continuing this journey together and building on the strong foundation that makes WSU a leader both on and off the field.

Go Cougs!