Jones: No to Georgia Tech job

By Stephen Tsai
Advertiser Staff Writer

JONES: Seeking contract extension

Instead, Jones told The Advertiser he hopes to sign a contract extension.

"I want to stay here, and I'm trying to get something done," said Jones, who has not placed a time limit on contract negotiations.

Several publications listed Jones as a candidate to replace George O'Leary, who resigned at Georgia Tech to become the head coach at Notre Dame. The Atlanta Journal-Constitution named Jones as one of three finalists.

But Jones said he has not been contacted by any Georgia Tech official. UH athletic director Hugh Yoshida said the Yellow Jackets have not asked for permission to interview Jones.

Jones signed a five-year contract with UH in December 1998. After the 1999 season, the UH Board of Regents extended Jones' contract by five years. But Jones said he did not sign a contract extension, and that he considers his contract to have two years remaining.

Jones earns an annual base salary of $150,000. In addition, he receives $100,000 annually from Na Koa, the football program's booster club, and $70,000 annually in appearance fees for his television and radio shows. Only the base salary is guaranteed.

Jones said money is not an issue in contract negotiations.

Money is "not a major issue," UH president Evan Dobelle said. "I think June wants to see a commitment, not just by me, but all elected officials, for the University of Hawai'i to have one of the premier Division I football teams."

Jones said he has presented a non-monetary wish list to Dobelle and Yoshida. "I don't want to say what" is on the list, Jones said. "I don't want to drag this through the media. But I believe everybody here believes the way I do, and hopefully we'll get some things done."