Tim Beckman Will Still Coach Illinois Football Team

Tim Beckman Will Still Coach Illinois Football Team

Illinois athletic is not yet done with Tim Beckman. The team still needs him to coach them before the end of his five year contract. According  toChicago Tribune, there had been rumors that Beckman would be sent packing after finishing his third season. This is because Illini’s performance had declined after loosing 38-27 to Purdue.

Illinois athletics director, Mike Thomas set the record straight on Sunday when he gave a press briefing saying that Beckman would still be the coach. Perhaps he changed his mind after Illini booked a slot in the bowl by defeating Northwestern.

“It was important to see improvement in our football program this season,” Thomas said in the statement.

“It’s my expectation that with the upcoming bowl and another offseason of development that Tim’s continued leadership will keep Fighting Illini football moving forward and even more competitive in the conference and nationally.”

Thomas did not disclose whether more years would be added into Beckman’s contract. The coach can now breath a sigh of release because his job is now safe.

Thomas avoided discussing the issue with the media. He however acknowledged Illini’s achievements by defeating other teams that were looking to qualify for the bowl.

“Our student-athletes have played their best football of the season down the stretch of a tough schedule that included nine bowl-eligible opponents,” Thomas’ statement read.

Beckman said that the future looked very bright for Illini after having recorded six wins. “This is all about our team and the seniors who are our leaders,” Beckman said.

“We all understand that this is a work in progress and that we need to continue moving forward in a positive way. I’m very proud of our six wins so far this season and the toughness we showed down the stretch.”