Charlie Partridge was introduced as the newest FAU head football coach at an 11:30 a.m. press conference on Dec. 16. This is his first head coaching job.

Partridge expressed much gratitude at his first press conference as head coach. “This is a big moment for me personally. To be named the fourth head football coach at Florida Atlantic University is a tremendous honor.”

The Plantation, Fla. native grew up just 20 miles from FAU. After growing up in South Florida, Patridge played college football at Drake University. Later, he coached at his alma mater, then at Pittsburgh, Wisconsin and most recently, Arkansas.

Partridge values the impact he can make on the men who will play under his tutelage.

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[quote_simple]“The growth of a young man from 18 to 22 cannot be measured,” said Patridge. “For me to have an opportunity to lead a program and make a difference in people’s lives within that timeframe is why I got into the business.”[/quote_simple]

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Partridge also made a point to commend the assistants for the job they did winning four consecutive games after the resignations of Head Coach Carl Pelini and Defensive Coordinator Pete Rekstis.

“I recognize what you guys did under very, very trying circumstances,” said Patridge, who will now have to decide which of the incumbent assistants he would like to keep on his head coaching staff, if any. Who stays and who goes is entirely up to him.

Brian Wright started the 2012-2013 season as the offensive coordinator and was promoted to interim head coach after Pelini left the program. Under Wright, the Owls won four consecutive games and ended their season bowl-eligible (they were not awarded a bowl). In an email to the UP, Wright said that he would be open to staying on the new staff.

Athletic Director Patrick Chun did not hire Pelini, but now Chun has the chance to make a distinct impact on the football program with his first hire as AD. Partridge expressed remarkable appreciation for the opportunity that has been bestowed upon him.

“I can’t thank you enough for having the faith in me to lead this program into the future,” Partridge said to Chun in Tuesday’s inaugural press conference. We will continue to build this program on the foundation that has already been created.”

According to FAU Owl Access, Partridge has agreed to a five year contract worth 2.76 million dollars, plus incentives.

Wesley Wright is the Sports Editor for the University Press. He can be reached at [email protected] or on Twitter at @NotEvenWes.