WMU News

Two assistant football coaches leave WMU for Missouri

Jan. 3, 2000

KALAMAZOO -- Offensive coordinator Bill Cubit and offensive line coach Sam Pittman of the Western Michigan University football coaching staff have announced their resignations in order to accept similar positions at the University of Missouri. Sunday was their last day on the job at WMU.

"We made every attempt to keep Bill and Sam at WMU, but ultimately they made the decision to move on to new career opportunities. We're grateful for their contributions to our program and wish them well," WMU Director of Athletics Kathy Beauregard said today.

Cubit spent three seasons (1997-99) as offensive coordinator on Gary Darnell's staff. This past season, the Broncos ranked 11th in passing offense (311.8 yards per game), 23rd in scoring offense (31.1 points per game) and 25th in total offense (413.3 yards per game) among 114 NCAA Division I schools. One of WMU's better offensive games occurred at Missouri, when the Broncos amassed 423 offensive yards, including four touchdown passes, in a 48-34 setback to the Tigers in Columbia (Sept. 18). Cubit will serve as co-offensive coordinator at Missouri and coach quarterbacks.

In his lone season at WMU, Pittman directed a Bronco offensive line that paved the way for 1,000-yard rusher Robert Sanford and provided protection for record-setting quarterback Tim Lester. In addition, tackle Charlie Knapp joined Lester as a starter on the North squad in the Blue-Gray postseason all-star game.

"I would like to thank [WMU president] Dr. Elson Floyd and Kathy Beauregard for their support and commitment to the Bronco football program," said Cubit. "My family feels very fortunate and thankful to have the opportunity to be part of the extraordinary experience of being a Bronco."

"Having Bill and Sam move on to a Big 12 institution is indicative of the kind of national recognition our program is receiving," said Gary Darnell. "These gentlemen played an important role in our program's success."

The Broncos (7-5 overall, MAC West Division Champions), coming off one of the most successful seasons in school history, will look to fill their coaching vacancies immediately.

Media contact: Daniel Jankowski, 616 387-4122; daniel.jankowski@wmich.edu


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