The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga has reaffirmed its commitment to Rodney Allison to continue his service as its Head Football Coach, Athletics Director Rick Hart said Wednesday.

Allison is in his fifth year as the Mocs' head coach.

“Coach Allison continues to embody the values which we strive to develop in our student-athletes,” Hart said.  “He is a leader and a father-figure to many young men, and he is a guiding force as they navigate through these four or five years toward productive and meaningful lives.

“I feel that our program needs continuity and stability.  He is committed to the educational mission of this institution, and I am proud of the way he represents us in the community and of the positive impact he has had on our program and the University.”

The Chattanooga position is Allison's first head coaching job, and he was hired by the University on Dec. 6, 2002.  His career record in five seasons is 16-39.

Under Allison, the Mocs have shown improvement in key areas, have had highly-regarded recruiting classes and have defeated all but one Southern Conference team during his five years.  From 2003 to 2007, the Mocs have a 7-4 record in games decided by three points or less and are 11-13 in games decided by 10 or fewer points.

The Mocs have a 2-8 overall record and are 2-4 in the Southern Conference heading into Saturday's game at No. 6-ranked Appalachian State in Boone, N.C.  Kickoff is set for 3:30 p.m.