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James Colzie signed a 3-year contract to become FAMU football coach. Here are the details
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- James Colzie signed a 3-year contract to become FAMU football coach. Here are the details
James Colzie is determined to uphold Florida A&M University's standard of winning on the football field.
But the Rattlers' new head coach will need to find success relatively quickly.
Colzie, who was officially introduced by the university Monday, has signed a three-year deal worth $720,000.
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Colzie replaced Willie Simmons, who resigned Jan. 1 after six seasons to join Duke as its running backs coach.
Simmons signed a five-year, $1.5 million contract at FAMU in December 2017, followed by an extension in 2021 through 2025. The extension did not include a salary increase.
Colzie's escalating base salary starts at $230,000 the first year, increases to $240,000 the second year and $250,000 the third year.
Colzie can also earn $95,000 in annual bonuses, with a high of $50,000 from a Celebration Bowl victory. The annual postseason game in Atlanta represents the Black College Football National Champion. FAMU beat Howard 30-26 in last December's Celebration Bowl to claim the HBCU national title.
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Colzie would also receive a $10,000 bonus based on the team's academic standing under NCAA guidelines.
In accordance with state guidelines, FAMU will pay $200,000 of Colzie's base salary annually. The difference will be paid annually by the university's Foundation, according to contract terms.
Colzie's contract is expected to be accepted by the university's Board of Trustees during its meeting Monday, Feb. 5 at 3 p.m. If ratified, the contract would go into effect Feb. 6.
This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: FAMU football coach James Colzie signs 3-year deal worth $720,000
