Greetings, Mountaineer Nation
My heart is overflowing with emotion and thankfulness as I sit down to write this letter. It is rare for a coach to have the opportunity to be profoundly, personally, spiritually, and professionally influenced by the location he previously called home. For me, Morgantown will always be that location. West Virginia University will always be the name.
Thank you to the entire WVU community, the devoted supporters, the students, the alumni, and the West Virginia Mountaineers football family. I’m grateful for the years of unshakable faith, the memories we’ve shared, the victories we’ve experienced, and the hardships we’ve faced together. I appreciate the chance you have given me to lead your team, develop, compete, and advance within a state and program that exemplifies resiliency in a unique way.
I was really proud to take over in 2001 because I knew I was going back to a program that had shaped me as a child, not just a program. The seasons that followed were among the most memorable of my life. We were creating something based on zeal, tenacity, and the hardworking mentality that characterizes this wonderful state—we weren’t simply playing football. The thunderous cheers of the 60,000 spectators at Milan Puskar Stadium every Saturday served as a reminder to me of why West Virginia is one of the most unique locations on the planet for coaching this sport.
I frequently reflect on the guys I had the privilege of coaching—their commitment, their perseverance, and their passion. They were courageous, diligent, and proud—they were the epitome of what it meant to be a Mountaineer. They performed for this state, their families, and each other, not for publicity or honors. That type of camaraderie endures. It’s a sacred thing.
Your support meant the world to the fans. You came through the rain, the snow, or the scorching sun. You had faith. Win or lose, you sung “Country Roads” with pride because football was never the only thing at stake. It has to do with family. The topic was home.
To the administration, the staff, and all those who toiled behind the scenes to make those years possible, I will always be grateful. You provided me with the opportunity to develop both as a man and as a leader. And even though I’ve traveled far since then, West Virginia will always hold a special place in my heart.
This goes beyond a simple “thank you.” It’s a letter of love. I see you, Morgantown’s hills, the Old Gold and Blue’s pride, and all those who have the Mountaineer spirit within them. I respect you. And you’ll always be with me.
Rich Rodriguez
Proud Son of West Virginia