Florida State’s Bowden says he wanted to coach another year, ‘that was out’ as an option

Bowden ‘disappointed’ about leaving a year early

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Bobby Bowden says he wanted to coach another year at Florida State, however “that was out” as an option.

Bowden told The Associated Press on Tuesday that he wanted to coach next season. A day after meeting with university officials, Bowden announced Dec. 1 that he would retire following the Seminoles’ bowl game.

The 80-year-old Bowden says he’s getting over the “disappointment” of leaving Florida State a year earlier than he had planned.

He’s been cleaning out his memorabilia-filled office in addition to trying to get the Seminoles ready for their New Years’ Day date against West Virginia in the Gator Bowl.

Bowden, who has coached since leaving college 56 years ago, says he’s preparing to move on with other challenges.