DAVIS, Calif. – UC Davis head football coach Dan Hawkins will continue to lead his alma mater, inking a contract extension through the 2027 season, athletics director Rocko DeLuca announced Thursday.

"We are thrilled to keep Coach Hawk home at his alma mater, and are excited to continue the momentum our football program has under his leadership," DeLuca said. "He has a unique understanding of the full student-athlete experience here at UC Davis, providing an environment of success on and off the field. As we move forward for the 2022 season, it's going to be exciting to support and participate in Aggie football and Coach Hawk's mission for success."

Coach Hawkins has led the Aggies to a 31-22 (.585) record over his five seasons. In just year two at the helm, Hawkins guided UC Davis to its first 10-win season since 2001 and its first FCS Playoff appearance in school history. The 23-16 victory over Northern Iowa in 2018 marked the first postseason win for the Ags since 2002.

"We are humbled and honored to carry on the tradition of Aggie Pride," Hawkins said. "We have a unique culture at UC Davis. We will continue to maintain a balance of personal, academic, and athletic excellence."

After navigating the Aggies through the COVID-19 pandemic and on the heels of a shortened five-game 2021 spring season, UC Davis again made an appearance in the FCS Playoffs last fall after an 8-4 campaign.

During the Hawkins era, the Aggies have enjoyed record-breaking crowds. Six of the top-10 all-time attended games at UC Davis Health Stadium have been in the last five years, including a record 12,315 in the Causeway Classic last season.

"This contract provides the continuity necessary to build on the recent achievements of our players and staff," said Hawkins.

Despite not being able to host large-scale events for a full year and not allowing more than 10,000 fans in the gates until the second home game on Oct. 2 this past fall, UC Davis saw a stadium record for attendance and average attendance over the five home games in 2021.

The support around the program has also flourished as the Aggies eagerly await the completion of the state-of-the-art Edwards Family Athletics Center. The project that is nearing completion also showcases the Bob Biggs Practice Field and a renovation of the Bob Foster Center.

"The generosity and investment by our administration, alumni, and community have enabled Aggie football to return to championships, playoffs, and national recognition," Hawkins added.

The Aggies will play a total of five home games at the newly resurfaced UC Davis Health Stadium and open their 2022 home slate against San Diego on Saturday, Sept. 17. Season tickets are still available. For more information, click HERE or call 530-752-2471.