LAS VEGAS - November 15, 2009 - University of Nevada, Las Vegas, (UNLV) President Neal Smatresk and Interim Athletic Director Jerry Koloskie announced today that head football coach Mike Sanford's contract will be terminated effective December 5, 2009. The action will occur after the conclusion of the 2009 football season, Sanford's fifth as head football coach with a 15-43 overall record at UNLV.

"Interim Athletic Director Jerry Koloskie and I announce the decision regarding Mike Sanford's employment regretfully and with the utmost respect for the time and effort he has devoted to the football team," said UNLV President Neal Smatresk. "We agree this action is needed at this time."

Sanford will coach the Rebels in their final game of the season at home vs. San Diego State on Nov. 28. The team has a bye week this week.

"We appreciate the service, commitment and dedication that Mike Sanford and his staff provided to UNLV over the last five years," Koloskie said. "Our efforts remain focused on building the Rebels into a winning football program."

UNLV became ineligible for postseason play on Saturday with a 45-17 loss at Air Force, which dropped its record to 4-7 overall and 2-5 in the Mountain West Conference. With one game remaining, Sanford has compiled a record of 7-32 in MWC play.

President Smatresk anticipates the selection of a new head football coach will be one of the first major decisions of the new UNLV athletic director.

Editors: UNLV President Neal Smatresk will be available to speak with the media about Coach Sanford on Monday, November 16. (Please contact UNLV Public Affairs at 702-895-3102). Coach Mike Sanford will be available for interviews at 2 p.m. Monday in the Lied Athletic Complex. (Please contact UNLV Sports Information at 702-895-4472).