STILLWATER – Oklahoma State and Mike Gundy have parted ways, effective immediately, according to a media release from OSU Athletics.
Including his time as a player and coach, Gundy spent more than 30 years at Oklahoma State."Cowboy Football reached an unprecedented level of success and national prominence under Coach Gundy's leadership," OSU Athletic Director Chad Weiberg said.
"I believe I speak for OSU fans everywhere when I say that we are grateful for all he did to raise the standard and show us all what is possible for Oklahoma State football."From 1986-89, Gundy quarterbacked some of OSU's most explosive offenses.
He finished his playing career as the Big Eight Conference career passing leader. As head coach, he led the Cowboys to the best era of sustained success in program history, highlighted by a Big 12 championship in 2011, five New Year's Six bowl appearances and eight 10-win seasons. His 170 career coaching victories are 108 more than any other coach in school history."College football has changed drastically in the last few years, and the investment needed to compete at the highest level has never been more important," Weiberg said.
"As we search for the next head coach of Cowboy Football, we are looking for someone who can lead our program in this new era. It is also important that we continue to support our student-athletes, our staff and our university through the season, and I hope that our fans continue to show that support in Boone Pickens Stadium this fall.
"Moving forward, it is critical for our fans, alumni and donors to align behind Cowboy Football," Weiberg said. "This is a pivotal moment, the stakes have never been higher and we need everyone on board."
"This is a decision about what's best for our football program, our student-athletes and Oklahoma State University and it reflects our unwavering commitment to championship-level football and competing for national success," said OSU President Jim Hess.
"Coach Gundy dedicated decades of his life to OSU, achieving significant success and positively impacting hundreds of young men who wore the OSU uniform. His contributions to our university, both as a player and coach, deserve our profound respect and will not be forgotten. We are grateful for his service and wish him and his family the very best."