Purdue president speaks out on football program’s future

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. (WLFI) – On Saturday, the Purdue Boilermaker’s football team took to the field for the first time since former head coach Darrell Hazell was let go.

With an interim coach in place, Purdue President Mitch Daniels is sharing his thoughts on the future of the program.

Hazell was let go Sunday less than 24 hours after the Boilermakers’ loss to Iowa on homecoming. Former wide receivers coach Gerad Parker was appointed as interim coach the same day.

It’s the first coaching change since Daniels’ took the position as university president.

He said it’s never an easy decision to see someone let go but feels optimistic.

“We are committed to this, and so that will be the case as we move forward,” said Daniels. “I’m excited about a new leaf, new leadership, a new performance center. I think better days are ahead.”

Daniels said the recent hiring of athletic director Mike Bobinksi and investments like the $65 million football performance center shows the university’s dedication to the program.