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Groh Signs New Six-Year Deal By John Galinsky Aug 19, 2005 Al Groh's new deal runs through the 2010 season. Al Groh got what he wanted: A new contract and a fat raise. UVa announced today that the football coach recently signed a six-year deal that will boost his total annual compensation to at least $1.7 million. Groh, 61, had three years remaining on his original seven-year contract worth $765,000 annually. That deal is superceded by the new one, which runs through Dec. 31, 2010. “Obviously, all of the Grohs are happy about it,” Groh said during a teleconference with reporters today. “This is where we want to be. This is the team we want to coach. This is where we want to live. And this is certainly where our hearts are.” Groh declined to comment further about the contract, saying he wanted to keep the focus on his team. But athletic director Craig Littlepage offered more details, saying negotiations began 14-15 months ago when UVa officials approached Groh about signing a long-term deal. Groh has compiled a record of 30-21 in four years, with three straight seasons of at least eight wins and a bowl berth. Season ticket sales, merchandising and fundraising also have never been better, thanks largely to the excitement and enthusiasm Groh has generated. “We think that we're heading in the right direction in every regard,” Littlepage said, “and we want to be able to build on that momentum.” Groh also can receive bonuses based on a number of achievements: a bowl berth (bonus based on the level of bowl), an ACC championship (or championship game appearance), ACC coach of the year honors, and end-of-season ranking. So his raise might be more than $1 million per year. Coaching salaries have gone up dramatically since Groh signed his first deal. “I think this reflects the market for top-20 coaches nationally,” Littlepage said. Littlepage said there is a provision to roll over the contract on an annual basis, meaning an additional year can be added to Groh's deal every year. That's done mainly for recruiting purposes. He also said the contract is guaranteed, though there are provisions in case UVa decides to terminate the contract without cause.

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