NIU extends Carey's deal

After watching him guide the Huskies to a 12-0 record in his first full season as head football coach, Northern Illinois University officials have extended Rod Carey's contract by one year and boosted his salary for 2014.

Carey's contract now runs through June 30, 2019, according to NIU associate vice-president and director of athletics Sean T. Frazier, who announced the news Friday.

While NIU did not disclose Carey's annual salary, officials said it now ranks in the top half of football coaches in the Mid-American Conference.

"This new agreement is something we've been working on for several months and we're excited to be able to announce the extension for Rod at this time," Frazier said in a statement released Friday. "We are looking forward to seeing him on the NIU sidelines for years to come and to the continued success of our football program."

Carey said he is thankful for the support from NIU.

"I am really happy and excited about where NIU football is and where it's going," he said. "I feel very lucky to be a part of it. It takes a community and it's more about the players and my staff than it is about me. Sean's leadership along with President Baker is unbelievable. I feel lucky to be working with them and couldn't think of better partners in this journey that NIU football is taking."

NIU opens 2014 spring practices March 18 and will hold the annual Huskie Bowl (spring game) on April 19 at 3 p.m. in Huskie Stadium.