An Epochal Open Letter from Gus Malzahn to UCF Knights, Fans, and the Whole Knights Community
Dear UCF family,
As I reflect on my time leading this great program, I am overcome with appreciation. Since I came in Orlando, the UCF Knights community has welcomed me, my family, and our coaching staff with open arms. You invited us into your house, trusted our vision, and together we created something incredibly remarkable. Today, I’d like to convey my heartfelt gratitude for the everlasting love, support, and belief you’ve shown me along this journey.
Coaching at UCF has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my career. This program is unique—not just because of the championships we pursue or the games we win, but also because of the passion, perseverance, and dedication that define our university, players, and fans. Every day, I am inspired by our student-athletes’ never-ending enthusiasm, our fanbase’s unwavering dedication, and the ambitious vision that propels this program forward.
My players, you are the heart and soul of this team. Your devotion, work ethic, and commitment to greatness are what distinguishes this program. It has been my greatest honour to watch you develop not only as athletes, but also as leaders, teammates, and men. You exemplify what it means to be a Knight, and I am extremely honoured to stand alongside you.
Our supporters are the driving force behind our program’s success. Whether it’s a crowded FBC Mortgage Stadium on game day, the endless notes of encouragement, or the electrifying energy you create wherever we go, your enthusiasm is unmatched. UCF has one of the most loyal and ardent fan bases in college football, which has made my job even more fulfilling.
Thank you to the UCF administration, staff, and supporters for believing in me and giving the resources necessary to transform our program into a national powerhouse. Your dedication to excellence has enabled us to compete at the highest levels, recruit elite talent, and propel UCF football to new heights.
This is more than a football program; it’s a community, a brotherhood, and a movement. We’ve accomplished so much together, and I genuinely feel the best is yet to come.
Charge On!
With appreciation,
Gus Malzahn,
Head Coach of UCF Knights Football.