Boston College Fires Coach Frank Spaziani

Boston, MA — Boston College has fired football coach Frank Spaziani after two straight seasons without a bowl appearance.

Spaziani has also had four years of progressively worse records.

Athletic director Brad Bates made the announcement Sunday, one day after the BC Eagles finished the season with a 27-10 loss at North Carolina State. The Eagles were 2-10 and 1-7 in the Atlantic Coast Conference this season.

In a new release sent shortly after an email to season ticket-holders, Bates wrote, “A personnel decision of this magnitude affects many people and is never taken lightly, but I felt a change was necessary.”

The decision was not unexpected, and Spaziani spoke openly about his understanding that this would be his last year with BC.

Spaziani told reporters after Saturday’s game that he would make his case to stay with the team.

In a statement released through the school, Spaziani said:

“Obviously this is a sad day for my family and me. Boston College has been my home for more than 16 years, and I have been fortunate to work with some amazing student-athletes. I will always treasure my relationships with them and the BC staff. Boston College is a tremendous place, and I am extremely thankful for my time there. I wish the current and future Eagles nothing but the best.”

The 65-year-old spent 12 years as a Boston College assistant. He spent the last 10 as a defensive coordinator before taking over when Jeff Jagodzinski was fired for interviewing for an NFL job.

In Spaziani’s first season, the Eagles won eight games. They won seven the next year and four last year. His overall record is 22-29.

Spaziani had three years remaining on his $1.1 million a year contract.

Bates, who replaced Gene DeFilippo as athletic director last month, said:

“It is with gratitude that we recognize the many contributions Coach Spaziani has made to Boston College during his 16 years in Chestnut Hill. He displayed unwavering dedication and loyalty to our institution and our football student-athletes, while consistently representing Boston College with class and dignity. He and his staff have devoted countless hours to our student-athletes and the BC community. We thank them and wish them well.”

Bates added that the school will be looking for a leader whose vision for the football program mirrors the mission of the school.

Do you think BC made the right choice firing Frank Spaziani?