Central Michigan University Athletics
DeBord Resigns CMU Football Post
12/17/2003 12:00:00 AM | Football
Dec. 17, 2003
MOUNT PLEASANT -- Mike DeBord resigned Wednesday as the head football coach at Central Michigan University.
The 47-year-old DeBord has been the Chippewa coach for the past four seasons after serving as an assistant coach at the University of Michigan for eight years. His four teams were 12-34 including a 3-9 season in 2003.
"I have submitted my resignation," said DeBord in a prepared statement. "It was the most difficult decision I've ever made. I made it after talking with several people and having a meeting with President (Mike) Rao.
"I felt to finish the rebuilding process that we needed more resources and guaranteed time. I have committed four years of my life to this program and I have enjoyed my time at CMU.
"I'd like to thank the players, coaches and Herb Deromedi for their effort. My future is unknown. I will look to be an assistant coach at the NFL or collegiate level."
Deromedi, CMU's athletics director, confirmed receiving DeBord's resignation.
"I know this is his decision," Deromedi said. "Neither the athletics department nor any representative of the university asked for a resignation.
"I want to commend Coach DeBord for the energy he brought to the football program. He was tireless in his efforts for recruiting and in leading the team.
"While disappointed, I only want to wish him well as he pursues future endeavors. We are finalizing our approach as we search for a new head coach."
President Rao also expressed his disappointment.
"While I am disappointed with Coach DeBord's decision to resign, I will respect his decision to do so. Mike DeBord has given enormous effort to building this program in ways that will undoubtedly benefit CMU in the next few years. We will miss him."
A native of Muncie, Ind., DeBord played football at Manchester College, graduating in 1978. He earned a master's degree from Ball State in 1981 and began his college coaching career at Franklin College in 1982-83. He also was an assistant at Fort Hayes (1984-86), Eastern Illinois (1987-88), Ball State (1989), Colorado State (1990-91) and Northwestern (1992) before going to UM.
DeBord served as the offensive coordinator for his final three years with the Wolverines including Michigan's 1997 national championship campaign.
DeBord indicated that he would continue to live in Mount Pleasant while his 17-year-old son, Kyle, finishes his senior year at Mount Pleasant High School. Mike and wife, Deb, also have a 22-year-old son, Tyler.
