Dec. 20, 1999

COLLEGE PARK, Md. -- University of Maryland football coach Ron Vanderlinden's contract has been extended two years to Jan. 31, 2004, athletic director Deborah A. Yow announced Monday.

Vanderlinden, who just completed the third year of his original five-year contract, this past season led Maryland to its best campaign since 1995, with the Terps still in contention for a bowl bid going into the final game of the season. Maryland finished the season with a 5-6 record, led the ACC in rushing (231.4 ypg) and had a second team All-American in tailback LaMont Jordan. The Terps return 16 starters in 2000.

"I have expressed to Coach Vanderlinden my appreciation for his terrific attention to the academic improvement of our football team, his diligent recruiting efforts which have resulted in improved signing classes, and his excellent rapport with our Terrapin supporters," said Yow. "Together, we have agreed that it is important to make improvements in both our ACC and overall win-loss record in the 2000 season. Both of these goals are within our reach. He and his staff continue to have our firm and full support."

Said Vanderlinden, "I appreciate the confidence the university has shown in the positive direction in which the program is moving. We've made a great deal of progress and are close to becoming a quality football program."

There were no changes to the original contract terms. The current base salary is $134,175.