GREENVILLE – In a significant shake-up for the East Carolina football program, Director of Athletics Jon Gilbert announced today the dismissal of head coach Mike Houston. This decision follows a thorough evaluation of the team's recent performance, which has not met the expectations of the university's administration or its passionate fan base.
"After a comprehensive evaluation of our football program, I informed Mike Houston this morning that we are making a change in leadership," Gilbert stated. "This was a very difficult decision. Mike has led our program for the last five-plus seasons with tremendous class and has positively impacted so many student-athletes. After earning back-to-back bowl invitations, we looked poised for continued success. Unfortunately, we have not seen the results we all want, and a change is needed to move the program forward."
Houston, who took the helm of the Pirates in December 2018, compiled a record of 27-38 during his tenure. His time at ECU was marked by moments of hope, including consecutive bowl game appearances, yet recent seasons have failed to live up to the lofty goals set by the university.
Prior to his appointment at ECU, Houston built a strong resume at James Madison University, where he led the Dukes to a remarkable 37-6 record, including an NCAA FCS national championship in 2016. His leadership there earned him the American Football Coaches Association (AFCA) FCS National Coach of the Year award.
Gilbert expressed optimism about the future, underscoring the attractive aspects of the ECU coaching position. "We are confident we will identify the right leader for our football program. ECU is a premier job with a passionate fan base, unprecedented support from our Pirate Club donors, and great facilities that continue to improve."
As the Pirates prepare for their final five regular season games, Gilbert emphasized the importance of supporting the student-athletes during this transition. "Right now, we are focusing on our student-athletes as they compete for a postseason opportunity. I hope Pirate Nation will rally around them as they always have."
To guide the team through the remainder of the season, defensive coordinator Blake Harrell has been named interim head coach. Harrell, who joined the program in 2020, will look to provide stability as ECU embarks on a search for a new head coach.
As the Pirates look ahead, this leadership change marks a pivotal moment in ECU football's quest for renewed success. With strong backing from the administration and an engaged fan base, the program aims to chart a new course under fresh leadership.
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