VERMILLION, S.D. - South Dakota head football coach John Austin has announced that he will remain at South Dakota. Austin, who has a 12-10 record and 9-9 mark in the North Central Conference in two years at USD, is very appreciative of all the support that he has received during the past 10 days when he was a finalist for the Northern Iowa football job.

"I am greatful to President (James) Abbott and the University administration for allowing me the opportunity to look at the Northern Iowa football job. In addition, I want to thank the many people who wrote me letters of support asking me to stay."

"I am enthusiastic about the program here. The coaches and players I work with on a day to day basis are like family to me. So I am very thankful that they have been so understanding and supportive," said Austin.

Austin, 43, has resurrected the Coyote football program by stressing hard work, teamwork and a commitment to excellence on and off the field. This past season, the Coyotes finished in a tie for third place in the NCC with a 6-3 mark and were 8-3 overall, the best mark at USD since 1995. The team finished with a four-game winning streak, the best since 1987. During his tenure, he has had eight all North Central Conference players, seven academic all-NCC performers, two All-Americans and an honorable mention all-American.