When it comes to “holy s---!” spins of the coaching carousel, Bret Bielema leaving Wisconsin for Arkansas ranks right at or near the top.
Most of those in and around the sport were stunned at the development. Somewhat surprisingly, Bielema’s boss was amongst the stunned. And, as a result, he’ll do his contractual damndest to ensure it doesn’t happen again.
In an interview on SiriusXM Radio, UW athletic director Barry Alvarez acknowledged again that Bielema told him last Tuesday that he had accepted the job as Arkansas’ next head football coach. Bielema was officially introduced as Arkansas’ head coach later that day.
As it again turns out, noon last Tuesday served as the first time that Alvarez had heard of Bielema’s interest in and pursuit of another job. As Alvarez continues his search for a successor, he will attempt to contractually ensure that such a blind-side to the UW football program doesn’t happen again.Phillips: Is there anything you can do to set up with the new coach so this doesn’t happen again? That there’s an understanding if there is any contact made that it’s got to come through the university first and not just a decision and then inform you later?
Alvarez: We’ve discussed that already here as an item in the contract. Before discussion with any other program, that we have to be contacted.
Cohen: So meaning it’s a violation of the contract immediately?
Alvarez: Right.One would think that common decency and respect -- “Hey, boss, I’m looking at other options” -- would be understood instead of having to be part of some type of contractual agreement. Thanks to the Bielemas of the coaching world, respect will continue to be an endangered species.