Wilton will stay at UH, seeks longer contract

By Stephen Tsai
Advertiser Staff Writer

In the end, University of Hawai'i men's volleyball coach Mike Wilton realized his prayers already were answered.

"It just didn't feel right," said Wilton, considered the top contender to succeed Carl McGown, who resigned at the end of the 2002 season.

The decision stunned many, including BYU athletic director Val Hale, who met with Wilton last week in Provo, Utah. Wilton is a high priest in the Mormon church, which administers BYU, and he said his decision would be dictated by his faith.

"I knew he had a good situation in Hawai'i, but I was a bit surprised," Hale said.

Said Wilton: "I probably dreamed too much about wanting to coach at a church school. It would have been a nice situation, but it's just inspiration that I've decided to withdraw."

Hale, who described Wilton as "one of our top candidates," said a finalist will be named next week.

"Mike Wilton was a very strong candidate," Hale said. "He's a great coach. We would have loved for him to coach our men's team. He apparently has other interests at this time. We support him and his decision. He's a good man."

Hale said Wilton asked several questions about BYU's volleyball future and support system during last week's interview, but those concerns did not factor in the decision.

"I know that wasn't the reason," Hale said. "I knew whatever decision he reached, it would be reached with careful consideration and prayer and discussions with his family."

Said UH outside hitter Tony Ching: "We're glad he's staying. It keeps everything in place."

UH athletic director Hugh Yoshida also expressed delight over Wilton's decision. Yoshida said he will seek a multiyear deal for Wilton, whose contract with UH expires Aug. 15.

Wilton is the winningest coach (200-87) in the program's history, leading the Warriors to three NCAA final four appearances in the past eight seasons. Earlier this month, the Warriors defeated Pepperdine in the NCAA Championships for UH's first men's team national title.

Last week, Wilton met with UH officials to discuss a multiyear contract. Wilton, who earns a base salary of $80,000, would like a significant pay raise for long-time assistant Tino Reyes, and to boost his son, Aaron, from a part-time assistant to full-time coach. Wilton said he does not anticipate any problems in negotiations.

"I'll just kick back and play with my dog and enjoy my family and grandchildren for a while," Wilton said. "We'll talk later on. One big decision is enough at this time."