CARBONDALE, Ill. — Southern Illinois University announced today that it has signed football head coach Nick Hill to a five-year contract extension.
A native son of Southern Illinois from nearby Du Quoin, and one of SIU’s all-time great quarterbacks, Hill is entering his seventh season at the helm of the Salukis and is now under contract through the 2026 season.
Playing in the toughest conference in the Football Championship Subdivision, the Salukis have emerged as a national power, and are coming off back-to-back FCS Playoff appearances. In its last 22 games, SIU has a record of 8-4 against ranked teams, including wins over the No. 1, No. 2, No. 3 and No. 4-ranked programs.
“Nick Hill has built something special here at his alma mater,” said SIU Director of Athletics Tim Leonard. “Beyond football, Nick’s program has become an important part of the fabric of our region through its many community service activities. He is a leader of the highest character, who works tirelessly for the betterment of SIU and the people of this region.”
Under Hill’s direction, Southern has recorded three-consecutive winning seasons for the first time since 2007-09, and it won two-road playoff games (at Weber State, at South Dakota), having previously won one just one playoff road game in school history. In the FCS Playoffs, the Salukis advanced to the Round of 8 in the spring of 2021 and the Sweet 16 last fall. SIU is one of only five FCS programs to advance to the Sweet 16 the last two seasons.
“When I say how much I love Southern Illinois and being a part of the 618 area, I truly mean it,” Hill said. “For me and my family, this is the best job in the country. I’m proud to be a Saluki and excited to help spread the message about the great things going on at our University.”
Hill’s base salary begins at $250,000 this season and increases by $15,000 each season thereafter. Leonard thanked Chancellor Austin Lane and interim AD Matt Kupec for their work in extending Hill.
