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The Honolulu Advertiser
Posted on: Wednesday, January 2, 2008

Jones' deal expiring; no UH offer yet

By Stephen Tsai
HawaiiWarriorBeat.com Editor

Hawaii news photo - The Honolulu Advertiser

With the season over, June Jones says he will "disappear" for a week to ponder his future.

EUGENE TANNER | The Honolulu Advertiser

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Not only did last night's Sugar Bowl mark the end of the Hawai'i football team's season, it completed the contracted seasons for head coach June Jones.

Jones' five-year contract officially expires June 30. But the "seasons have expired," said his agent, Leigh Steinberg.

Jones has empowered Steinberg to listen to offers. Jones reportedly has received strong interest — if not offers — from a college and National Football League team.

"I'm not going to comment on the specifics," Steinberg said. "June asked me to listen to people who might call and ask about his services. The process has been occurring."

Jones has said he will "disappear" for a week to contemplate his future. The team returns to Honolulu this afternoon, and Jones said he will spend time in Kona.

"I'm going to take a little time off and step away from it," Jones said. "Leigh and I will spend some time the next six or seven days and reflect on a lot of stuff."

Jones would not comment on the reported offers.

"I haven't had a chance to talk to Leigh about it," Jones said. "I've just been focusing on football."

Steinberg said: "Now that the season is over, I think we'll have a chance to sit down and evaluate his future."

With the dead period for recruiting set to end next week, Steinberg said, "I think the time frame will be a reasonably rapid one."

Steinberg confirmed that UH athletic director Herman Frazier has not negotiated a new contract for Jones.

"We have not had one conversation (on a new contract)," Steinberg said. "Nothing of substance. They haven't made a proposal."

Quarterback Colt Brennan, who completed his UH eligibility with last night's game, said he understands the frustrations of a limited budget, but he hopes Jones will return for a 10th season.

"I hope he stays," Brennan said. "He's a good fit for Hawai'i. I think he understands the culture and the people, and how to have success in Hawai'i. I really hope he stays."

Reach Stephen Tsai at stsai@honoluluadvertiser.com.

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