East Carolina gives McNeill extension

Jun 3, 2013 - 6:21 PM Greenville, NC (Sports Network) - East Carolina University has extended head football coach Ruffin McNeill's contract through the 2017 season.

The three-year extension provides a total compensation package of $1.15 million with the possibility of earning incentives.

McNeill's existing five-year contract was set to expire after the 2014 season, but has been extended to June 30, 2018.

McNeill was named East Carolina's 20th head football coach on Jan. 21, 2010. In his three years as head coach, McNeill has led the Pirates to two bowl appearances with a combined 11-4 divisional record. The Pirates have ranked in the Conference USA East Division's top three during McNeill's tenure.

"As a former student-athlete in our football program, he understands the expectations and passion of our fan base," ECU Director of Athletics Jeff Compher added. "I am extremely happy for Coach McNeill, his family, our assistant coaches, and most of all for our student-athletes. This contract extension is well-deserved and signifies an outstanding commitment to Coach McNeill and his continued leadership of our football program."

The 54-year-old head coach previously served on the Texas Tech defensive staff for 10 years from 2000 to 2009.