Cavanaugh turns down San Jose State
By Stephen Tsai
Advertiser Staff Writer
University of Hawai'i assistant coach Mike Cavanaugh, the architect of the football team's successful offensive lines, yesterday turned down a lucrative, multi-year offer to join the San Jose State coaching staff.
Advertiser library photo • May 1, 2004
"I love it here, and my family loves it here," Cavanaugh said. "I guess we were moved by the aloha spirit."
"I love it here, and my family loves it here," Mike Cavanaugh said of his decision to stay at UH.
UH coach June Jones said: "I'm happy he's staying. He's done a great job for us."
In Cavanaugh's six years at UH, five Warrior offensive linemen were selected in the National Football League draft. Another five signed free-agent contracts.
Last week, Dick Tomey, the newly hired San Jose State head coach, asked UH for permission to interview Cavanaugh. Jones granted the request, and Cavanaugh met with Tomey in San Jose on Thursday.
Soon after, Cavanaugh was offered the dual role of assistant head football coach and offensive line coach. He also was offered a contract that was more lucrative than his deal with UH. Cavanaugh's annual UH package, which includes a housing subsidy and cost-of-living allowance, is valued at about $100,000.
Cavanaugh said he was impressed with San Jose State's facilities, particularly the state-of-the-art weight room, and Tomey's commitment to recruiting heavily in California.
"I thought (San Jose) was a nice area, too," Cavanaugh said.
He returned to Honolulu Friday night, and told reporters yesterday morning of his decision to remain at UH.
"We love it here," Cavanaugh said. "We've made great friends and met wonderful people. I've got a great job, too."
Cavanaugh's eldest son, Shane, is a junior at Saint Louis School. "It wouldn't be fair to move him," Cavanaugh said.
Cavanaugh also said he did not want to abandon his players and recruits. He has secured three verbal commitments from recruits this year.
"He definitely was the reason I wanted to go to Hawai'i," said Daniel Johnson, an offensive lineman from Skyline High in Washington state. "To hear he's staying means a lot to me. It shows his character and commitment to the team."
Brandon Eaton, UH's starting right tackle, said he was relieved to hear of Cavanaugh's decision. Eaton said he heard rumors of San Jose State's interest last week.
"I'm very happy," Eaton said. "I've been here four years. I would feel sick if he left. I really got to know him. I like him as a coach, a guy, all around."
Reach Stephen Tsai at stsai@honoluluadvertiser.com or 525-8051.
