Tim DeRuyter’s farewell to Fresno State football: ‘It was an honor’
Tim DeRuyter, who on Sunday was fired as head coach of the Fresno State football team, turned to Twitter on Monday morning to say his goodbyes.
“It was an honor to serve as the head coach,” wrote DeRuyter, who was let go a day after the Bulldogs lost at Utah State to fall to 1-7 this season.
DeRuyter was in his fifth season with Fresno State. He was 20-6 his first two years but finished with a 30-30 record. His teams won a share of the Mountain West championship in 2012 and an outright conference title in 2013.
DeRuyter wrote that he and his wife, Kara, “were blessed to be here in the Valley & will always cherish our memories of winning Championships & the fantastic people here.”
Fresno State Athletic Director Jim Bartko said the university will conduct a national search for DeRuyter’s replacement. Offensive coordinator Eric Kiesau will serve as interim coach. The Bulldogs have four games left on this year’s schedule, including Friday night against Air Force at Bulldog Stadium.
Kara and I were blessed to be here in the Valley & will always cherish our memories of winning Championships & the fantastic people here.
— Tim DeRuyter (@TimDeRuyter) October 24, 2016
We are so thankful for the efforts of our players, coaching & support staff & administration that gave us this opportunity.
— Tim DeRuyter (@TimDeRuyter) October 24, 2016
A final special thanks to the Students and Red Wave who faithfully support the Bulldogs. It was an honor to serve as the head coach.
— Tim DeRuyter (@TimDeRuyter) October 24, 2016
This story was originally published October 24, 2016 at 11:18 AM with the headline "Tim DeRuyter’s farewell to Fresno State football: ‘It was an honor’."