Updated

The University of Richmond extended football coach Danny Rocco's contract through the 2017 season on Monday.

In his first season at the helm of the Richond program last year, Rocco led the Spides to a share of the CAA Football championship while posting an 8-3 overall record. The team's five-win improvement from 2011 was second-best in program history.

The former Liberty head coach was a finalist for the 2012 Eddie Robinson Award as FCS coach of the year.

"In just one season, Danny has helped return the Richmond football program to national prominence," athletic director Keith Gill said. "Danny set a terrific foundation last season for the team not only on the field, but in the classroom. I couldn't be more excited about where our team is headed under Danny's guidance."