MT. PLEASANT, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – A day after beating rival Western Michigan University, Central Michigan University head football coach Jim McElwain announced he was retiring at the end of the 2024 season. He has led the CMU program for six years and coached football for over four decades.

McElwain says, “My wife Karen and I have cherished every moment of our football journey. We want to express our deepest gratitude to all the players who have welcomed us into their lives, and the incredible coaches and support staff at every stop along the way – it has been a true privilege to work alongside all of them. The lifelong friendships that were created mean the world to us.”

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McElwain has guided CMU to two bowl appearances and two MAC West Division titles in his six years. His first season was one of the best turnarounds in the FBS, improving a program from one win in 2018 to eight in 2019. He was named the MAC Coach of the Year. The 2021 season was his best as CMU went 9-4 with a 24-21 win over Washington State in the Tony the Tiger Sun Bowl, becoming the first MAC victory against a Pac-12 team.

“We are especially thankful for our time at Central Michigan. Mount Pleasant and the CMU community hold a special place in our hearts, and we look forward to continuing to be a part of this program and this great community. Thank you for the unwavering support and the unforgettable memories,” said McElwain.

CMU won their fourth game of the year on Tuesday night, taking a 16-14 victory over Western Michigan, taking the Victory Cannon Trophy with them. It was the first win at home over WMU since 2010 and the first time to defeat the Broncos since 2021. CMU held off a late WMU charge in the fourth quarter for the two-point win, only allowing 184 yards of total offense.

McElwain will coach one more game for CMU on November 30 when they travel to DeKalb, Ill., to face Northern Illinois.