Jones dispels 'Net rumor he's thinking of leaving
| • | Boise QB has sweet tooth to match sweet touch |
By Stephen Tsai
Advertiser Staff Writer
June Jones emphatically denied he is considering leaving his job as the University of Hawai'i head football coach at the end of this season.
Advertiser library photo
"No, I'm not going anywhere," Jones said. "Who would start something like that?"
"I'm committed to staying here. I'm committed to these kids and to this job," June Jones said yesterday.
Rumors circulating on the Internet and through the football program's booster club place Jones as a candidate for the vacant head coaching job at California or with the Oakland Raiders, should head coach Jon Gruden leave.
While Jones has received offers in the past, he told The Advertiser yesterday, "I'm committed to staying here. I'm committed to these kids and to this job."
When asked how long he planned to coach in Hawai'i, Jones said, "I hope I can stay my whole life here."
Jones said his focus is on Boise State, Saturday's opponent at Aloha Stadium.
His long-range goal, Jones said, is to build the Warriors' depth. He said that will take at least another two recruiting classes.
"I came here to do something and I want to build it and get it done," Jones said.
Jones has five years remaining on a contract that was extended after the 1999 season, his first at UH.
He turned down a four-year contract to remain with the San Diego Chargers, where he was interim head coach when UH called.
