University of Central Arkansas head football coach Clint Conque decided to remain a Bear on Saturday, taking his name out of the running for the vacant Illinois State University job.
"After much deliberation, I have decided to remain at the University of Central Arkansas and remove my name from consideration for the vacant head coaching position at Illinois State University,' Conque said. "I want to thank the officials at Illinois State for their interest in me. I wish them all the best in their search.
Conque led the Bears to a 10-2 overall record and a 6-1 first-place finish in the Southland Conference this season. His overall record at UCA is 68-36 in nine seasons. He was named the Southland Conference Coach of the Year last month and is a finalist for the Eddie Robinson Award given to the top coach at the FCS level.
"I truly believe we have a tremendous situation here at UCA,' said Conque. "Dr. (Brad) Teague has been very supportive throughout this process. His leadership and friendship has meant a lot to my family and me as well as our assistant coaches.
"Our football program has achieved a great deal during our tenure here at UCA, and we feel there is still much more work to be done. Every program has challenges and I am committed to moving forward in a positive manner.'
UCA lost 12 seniors from last year's squad, including record-setting quarterback Nathan Brown and several other starters who helped the Bears to their first-place finish and a Top 15 ranking. UCA was ineligible to be named the SLC champion because of its transition to NCAA Division I. The Bears will be eligible for conference titles and postseason playoffs in 2010.
"My staff and I are highly energized by the response in recruiting and look forward to 2009 to once again contend for the Southland Conference title,' said Conque.
Teague, UCA's athletic director, said Conque's current contract was rolled over for the full four years, with all other terms remaining the same.
"We're happy with Coach Conque's decision to stay,' Teague said. "He manages all aspects of a Division I program very well. Coach Conque is committed to the success of this program. That is most evident with him declining to continue in the process during this crucial recruiting period.
"Coach Conque is a professional individual and we are thrilled that he will be with us for years to come.'
Illinois State is searching for a replacement for Denver Johnson, who resigned following the season.
