The University of Texas El Paso made it official on Monday, hiring Steelers' offensive line coach Sean Kugler as their new head coach.
Kugler, a four-year letterman at UTEP from 1985-88, has been with the Steelers for the past three seasons and will leave at the end of the 2012 season.
"I would like to congratulate Sean on his new position at UTEP," said Coach Mike Tomlin. "The Miners are getting a tremendous coach and even though we are sad to see him leave the Steelers, we are excited for him to return to his alma mater and lead their program. We are grateful for his contributions in Pittsburgh, and we wish Sean and his family nothing but the greatest success at UTEP."
Kugler, who was on the UTEP coaching staff from 1993-2000, has aided in the growth of some of the Steelers young offensive linemen.
"I think is it is awesome, and a great opportunity for him," said center Maurkice Pouncey. "He has done a lot for us and helped us along this path in the NFL, especially me. For him to get that opportunity is great.
"I love that guy and hope the best for him. He is a players' coach. He loves you but at the same time he knows how to put things in perspective for you and knows how to go out and get on you when needed. Anybody who gets that guy as a head coach is going to have a great team and a great opportunity to be successful."
