DURHAM, NC -- North Carolina Central University
head coach Rudy Abrams
announced his retirement from the Eagle football
program Saturday,
immediately following a disheartening 29-14
home loss to Johnson C.
Smith that concluded an emotional roller coaster
ride through the 2002
season.
"It's time," Abrams told reporters
when he emerged from the locker room
after telling his student-athletes and coaching
staff about his
retirement. Abrams said he has been considering
this decision for a few
months, but made it official on Friday (Nov.
8) when he submitted a
letter of retirement to NCCU Athletic Director
Lin Dawson.
"Coach Abrams leaves this program with
a solid foundation," Dawson said.
"Next year, 22 seniors will return for
the 2003 season. I wish him well
as he prepares for the next phase in his life."
The Eagles finished the 2002 campaign with a
4-6 overall record, only
Abrams' second losing season in nine years as
a college head coach. His
overall coaching record now stands at 53-36-1,
including an 18-21 record
in four seasons at NCCU.
"I thank Coach Abrams for his service to
the University and wish him
well in his retirement," NCCU Chancellor
James H. Ammons said. "We are
going to move quickly to find a new head coach."
