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Ohio head coach Frank Solich retires to focus on health

Jan 3, 2020; Boise, Idaho, USA; Ohio Bobcats players dump french fries on head coach Frank Solich during the second half of the Famous Idaho Potato Bowl against the Nevada Wolf Pack at Albertsons Stadium. Ohio won 30-21. Mandatory Credit: Brian Losness-USA TODAY Sports

Frank Solich retired after 16 seasons as head coach at Ohio to focus on his health.

The 76-year-old previously coached at Nebraska, where he replaced Tom Osborne in 1998 and posted a 58-19 record with the Cornhuskers.

Ohio had two winning seasons in 22 years prior to Solich’s arrival. He led the program to 11 bowl games.

Associate head coach and offensive coordinator Tim Albin was named Ohio head coach, agreeing to a four-year contract on Wednesday, the Bobcats announced.

“After fifty-five years in coaching, including 16 at Ohio University, it is time for me to step away to focus on a cardiovascular health issue,” said Solich, the MAC Coach of the Year in 2006. “I’ve appreciated the support of Bobcat fans over the years, and I know they will continue to support Coach Albin. After working directly with Tim for 21 consecutive years, including six at the University of Nebraska, it’s clear to me he is prepared to continue our work and move the program forward. I am happy for Tim and his family.”

Solich has a career record of 173-101, which includes his previous time at Nebraska, where he hired Albin as a graduate assistant in 2000. He was previously head coach at Northwestern Oklahoma State for three seasons, including a 13-0 season in 1999 as NAIA national champions.

“It is truly an honor to lead the Ohio University football program and I want to express my gratitude to President Sherman and Director of Athletics Julie Cromer for their belief in me,” Albin said. “I am forever indebted to Coach Solich for all that he has offered me and taught me through the years, and I know he will always be part of our program. Our team will provide an unmatched student-athlete experience both on and off the field and we will graduate young men prepared to succeed in life. With the help of our incredible staff I know great things lie ahead, and our work continues.”

–Field Level Media

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