A day before the Miami Hurricanes faced off against Louisville in an intense shootout, the university made a significant move by officially appointing as its new president. Echevarria, who had been serving as the interim president since June after Julio Frenk’s departure to UCLA, received unanimous approval from university representatives.
Mario Cristobal, head coach of the Hurricanes football team, shared insights into the pivotal role Echevarria played in his decision to return to Miami as head coach three years ago. “I can honestly say I would not have hopped on a plane and come to Miami without the presence of our current president,” Cristobal emphasized during a press conference on Monday.
Cristobal’s hiring was not a foregone conclusion when the university sought a replacement for former head coach Manny Diaz, now leading Duke. At that time, Cristobal was enjoying great success at Oregon, boasting a 35-13 record, including a Rose Bowl victory in 2019. However, the combination of his ties to the university and Echevarria’s influence proved compelling enough for him to accept the challenge.
Echevarria is deeply committed to enhancing the football program and athletics in general—an approach that has not always characterized Miami’s leadership in the past. The Hurricanes celebrated Echevarria’s appointment with a thrilling 52-45 victory over Louisville, marking their first 7-0 start since 2017 and earning them a No. 6 ranking in the country.
Following the game, Cristobal formally welcomed Echevarria as the new president, presenting him with the game ball during a celebratory locker room moment. As Miami prepares to host their archrival, the Florida State Seminoles, this weekend, they aim to maintain their perfect record against a struggling opponent that has won only one game this season.
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