BYU coach Kalani Sitake has created something truly remarkable in Provo over the last five years.
Sitake took over as head coach of the Cougars in 2016, guiding them to a 9-4 record and a Poinsettia Bowl victory in his first season with the program. After some up and down seasons, he transformed BYU into one of the most consistent competitive clubs in the country.
That piqued the attention of Penn State last December, when the university made a strong bid for the Tongan-American HC. Instead, he chose to stay with his alma mater, where he received a long-term extension.
Kalani Sitake discusses turning down Penn State’s offer.
Sitake explained his decision to Pete Nakos of On3. com in an exclusive interview, after one of college football’s largest names came calling.
“It got real fast once people started to find out about it,” Sitake confessed. “The decision-making process had to take place virtually quickly. Looking at what Penn State was doing and attempting to provide, I had to decide what I wanted, what I would accept as compensation, and what I was looking for. “
Instead, Sitake chose the alternative in which he knows he is supported, appreciated, and familiar with the neighborhood.
“I simply don’t know much about the area or recruiting there… It was really difficult for me to leave, especially knowing how much the fans appreciate me here,” Sitake said. “Sometimes, when you become caught up in business, you miss the things that matter most. “
Sitake has a 84-45 record in his 10 seasons as head coach, including a 6-2 record in the school’s postseason bowl games. According to reports, Sitake’s new contract pays him approximately $9. 5 million per year and will keep him on the sideline at LaVell Edwards Stadium for the foreseeable future.
