After nine seasons coaching the Miners, head football coach Mike Price has decided to step down. Price announced at his weekly media luncheon today that he would be retiring, effective at the end of the season.

“I’m very thankful to President Natalicio for giving us this opportunity...It has been the chance of a lifetime. I am very appreciative of the loyal support by Director of Athletics Bob Stull. I can’t thank him enough for his patience and support. This is my last year of coaching. It is great go out with this group of fine student-athletes and coaches. Although I didn’t go to school here, I’m a Miner. Joyce and I are proud to be El Pasoans.”

Coach Price holds an overall 48-60 mark as the head coach at UTEP, and an overall mark of 177-182. Price's record at UTEP gives him the second highest win percentage a Miner coach has had over the last 45 years. Only current athletic director Bob Stull holds a higher win percentage in that time. Also, his 177 wins make him the 6th winningest active football coach in the FBS.

While opinions on Price have been split over the last few years, there is no questioning that the man has undoubtedly done wonders for the program. He inherited a perennial losing team that experienced three straight 2-10 records, and turned that into two 8 win seasons, and 3 bowl appearances in his tenure.

He has done great things for the athletic program, and one could make the argument that Price's time in El Paso began to put UTEP back on the map. On the top of everything, coach Price has always shown a great love for the city of El Paso, and has done much to contribute back to the community.

The Miners will end the 2012 season, and coach will end his career, this Saturday at the Sun Bowl against Rice. Kickoff is slated for 5:00 p.m. MT, and tickets are still available. As fans, the least we can do is send Price off with some class. Make sure to get out there and support.

Thank you Coach Price for all that you have done for UTEP Athletics, and the City of El Paso.