Athens, OH (Best E Casino) - Ohio University has extended the contract of head football coach Frank Solich through the 2013 season.

Solich has spent the past three years with the Bobcats, guiding the school to a record of 19-18. The team was just 6-6 last season following a 9-5 campaign that ended with a bowl appearance in 2006.

"I want to thank [athletic director] Jim Schaus and President [Roderick J.] McDavis for continuing their support, not only to me, but our entire football program," said Solich. "I am very excited about the present and future of Ohio football, but I also look forward to helping our student-athletes realize their dreams on and off the field for a long time to come."

The Bobcats were just 4-7 in Solich's first season, but rebounded to win the MAC East title in 2006. Ohio received an invitation to the GMAC Bowl, earning its first bowl bid since 1968.

"I am elated to ensure Frank Solich being here for the next five years," said Schaus. "It is historic to be able to make an investment in our future by having a coach of his ability and history of success. He has orchestrated a significant turnaround in our football program with more success than we have seen in a long time."

Solich arrived in Athens after six seasons as the head coach of Nebraska. He guided his alma mater to record of 58-19 with one Big 12 title, and was twice named the conference coach of the year, before being fired after the 2003 regular season.

Under Solich, the Cornhuskers captured the conference title in 1999 and played for the national championship following the 2001 season, losing the title game to Miami-Florida in the 2002 Rose Bowl.