HEADLINE

Austin Peay football coach Hudspeth resigns

Field Level Media

July 04, 2020 at 1:30 am.

Austin Peay football coach Mark Hudspeth surprisingly resigned Friday after just one successful season at the school.

Hudspeth guided the Governors to an 11-4 record last season. The 11 wins were a program record, and he was selected Ohio Valley Conference Coach of the Year.

“This was not an easy decision, but a very personal one,” Hudspeth said in a statement released through the school. “I need to take some time away from the game with (wife) Tyla and the kids. I could not be more thankful for my time at Austin Peay and will be a fan forever.

“I will miss the players and coaches incredibly and will never forget their commitment to each other and this team. I will return to coaching in the future at the right time.”

Hudspeth, 51, served as a head coach at Louisiana-Lafayette from 2011-17. He compiled a 51-38 record over seven seasons before being dismissed. The NCAA vacated 22 of his victories with the Ragin’ Cajuns.

Hudspeth also was a head coach at Division II North Alabama from 2002-08, going 66-21 and making three national semifinal appearances during seven seasons.

Athletic director Gerald Harrison applauded Hudspeth for his work during his time at Austin Peay.

“First, I want to thank Mark for his work in moving Governors football to new heights,” Harrison said in a statement. “His dedication to Governors football has laid the foundation for our football program to reach even greater success. We’ll get to work immediately determining our next steps to build on the momentum Mark built.”

Harrison added that the rest of the coaching staff would remain on the job.

Austin Peay is currently slated to begin team practices on July 31.