Alvarez says he will finish career at Wisconsin

Wisconsin head football coach Barry Alvarez says he will remain with the Badgers for the rest of his career.

Alvarez, who was cited as one of the top candidates for the coaching vacancy at the University of Miami, told reporters that he was “very flattered by the interest shown in [him] by Miami” but that he wishes to stay at Wisconsin.

“My staff and I have put in over a decade of work, building a program that we think is a very well-run program and on solid ground,” says Alvarez. “I am excited and energized about continuing to build the program.”

Athletics officials confirmed that a contract extension for Alvarez is in the works with details to be completed at a later date. News reports placed the value of the new contract at $1.35 million a year.

In his 11 years as head coach, Alvarez has led the Badgers to six bowl victories, including three Rose Bowl titles. He is the all-time winningest coach in UW history.

“The football program is the key to the success of the entire athletic department,” says Chancellor John Wiley. “I can tell you — from taking trips all over the country to alumni events, Founders Day dinners and events of that sort — that Barry is already absolutely legendary among Wisconsin fans. By staying and completing his career here, he’s just going to nail down the type of football dynasty that very few people ever have a chance to be associated with.”