NORFOLK, Va. - Old Dominion University athletic director Dr. Camden Wood Selig announced Monday that Bobby Wilder has resigned as ODU's football coach.
"I have resigned as head coach of the ODU football program as I feel it's in the best interest for this program going forward," Wilder said. "I have poured my heart and soul into this university and our football program, but I feel this is the best decision for Old Dominion University. I plan to be an asset throughout the transition for the University.
"I would like to thank President Broderick for the opportunity he gave me 13 years ago to coach at Old Dominion University."
Wilder tendered his resignation to Selig and senior associate athletic director for football Bruce Stewart on Monday morning.
"This should in no way detract from or diminish the sacrifice and commitment that Coach Wilder has given ODU and our entire Hampton Roads community while leading our football program," Selig said.
"Coach Wilder has dedicated the last 13 years of his professional career in the pursuit of excellence for ODU football.
"I am extremely grateful to Bobby Wilder, our assistant coaches, our student athletes and our football support staff. Collectively they have given everything of themselves. They have represented ODU with class and dignity."
President Broderick also praised Wilder's decorum.
"Coach Wilder has represented the University and our football program with class and dignity since the day we announced his hiring," President Broderick said.
Wilder helped ODU launch football, signing his first recruiting class in 2008 and fielding the University's first team in 2009. He tirelessly promoted ODU football, helping the Monarchs sell out their first 60 games.
ODU went 10-3 and won the Bahamas Bowl in 2016. However, ODU has compiled a composite 10-26 record the last three seasons, including three victories against FCS teams.
The Monarchs lost a school record 11 games in a row this season. Their only victory was a 24-21 win over FCS Norfolk State in the season opener. ODU was 2-14 in Conference USA the last two seasons.
"The last three seasons have been extremely challenging measured by the lack of victories, rapidly declining stadium attendance, substantial lost ticket revenue and the overall loss of program momentum, all occurring at a time while opening a new stadium during which all of these metrics should be peaking," he said.
"Our goals for our ODU football program are the same as for all of our athletic programs. We want to provide opportunities for student-athletes to compete consistently for conference championships and national prominence."
Selig said he is looking for an excellent recruiter with FBS experience. He noted that a new coach can tout ODU's facilities, especially the new $67.5 million S.B. Ballard Stadium and recently enhanced L.R. Hill practice facilities, institutional location and a diverse student body.
The first of two national signing periods is Dec. 18-20. Selig says he expects to have a new coach hired by then.
Selig said the Old Dominion Athletic Foundation, the University's fundraising organization, will buy out the last two years of Wilder's contract for $600,000, fulfilling the terms of a deal he signed in 2017.
Selig indicated a national search will begin immediately and will use the assistance of a search firm.
Selig will have no further comment on Wilder or the search for a new head coach until the University is in a position to announce and introduce the next head coach.
Wilder Resigns as Old Dominion Football Coach
