Media reports that Kill has not signed his contract may give Gophers fans undue worry. Maturi said Kill signed and is working under a five year Memorandum of Understanding with terms that include a $1.1 million salary.
A detailed contract continues to be negotiated between Kill and the Gophers. What some observers may not realize is that it’s not unusual for someone like Kill to coach for at least part of his first season without a signed contract.
Former Gophers coach Glen Mason didn’t have his formal contract completed while coaching during his initial season in 1997. As with Mason, Kill and other coaches around the country, negotiations involve agents and lawyers. Agreement on specific language can require time.
During the interview with Sports Headliners, Maturi said his department continues to look at a contract extension with Gophers basketball coach Tubby Smith. Although he has three years remaining on his deal, Smith is looking for an extension and undoubtedly a salary boost from his annual compensation of about $2 million that already ranks him fourth in the Big Ten.
Smith also wants a new practice facility but Maturi said funding requires “seven figure” lead donors. So far that funding hasn’t been secured.
Maturi’s to-do list these days also includes hiring a chief financial officer, replacing Elizabeth Eull who is still with the University but not in the athletic department. The position requires budgetary and human resources expertise.