Terps extend Friedgen's contract through 2012

COLLEGE PARK, Md. -- Maryland coach Ralph Friedgen received an eight-year contract extension that could keep him at his alma mater through 2012.

Friedgen is 31-8 in three seasons with the Terrapins.

His base salary will be $210,790 a year and his total annual package will be about $1.5 million, according to a statement released Friday by athletic director Deborah A. Yow.

The contract requires that $1 million be paid to the university if Friedgen leaves for a coaching position at any other college or professional team.

"Maryland is where I want to be," the 57-year-old Friedgen said. "With the improvement of our facilities and the progress this program has seen in the last three years, I am enthusiastic about seeing how high we can take it."

Maryland is one of only five schools in Division I-A to have one at least 10 games in each of the last three seasons. Friedgen's fourth season opens at home Sept. 4 against Northern Illinois.

AP NEWS
The Associated Press News Service

Copyright 2004, The Associated Press, All Rights Reserved