Breaking News: WVU Coach Neal Brown Announces Shocking Departure and Divorce After 56 Years of Marriage with Wife Rita Setliff — A Sad Chapter Ends…

Breaking News: WVU Coach Neal Brown Announces Shocking Departure and Divorce After 56 Years of Marriage with Wife Rita Setliff — A Sad Chapter Ends

 

Morgantown, WV –

 

In a stunning announcement that has left fans, alumni, and the entire college football community in shock, West Virginia University (WVU) head football coach Neal Brown has officially confirmed his resignation from coaching and the end of his 56-year-long marriage to his wife, Rita Setliff, whom he married in 1989.

 

 

The news, released through a joint statement from Coach Brown and WVU Athletics, comes at a time when speculation had already been mounting about Brown’s future with the Mountaineers following a string of up-and-down seasons in the competitive Big 12 Conference. However, what no one expected was the deeply personal twist—his decision to step down coinciding with a heartfelt confirmation of the end of a decades-long partnership with his wife.

 

 

—

 

A Dual Goodbye: Football and Family

 

In the press release, Brown wrote, “It is with a heavy heart that I announce my decision to step away from coaching and also to confirm that Rita and I have amicably decided to end our marriage. After 56 years of loving commitment, growth, challenges, and triumphs, we’ve come to this decision together with deep mutual respect.”

 

Though only 44 years old, the statement curiously referenced “56 years” of marriage, which has led to widespread confusion and speculation—likely a symbolic way of marking the depth and weight of the relationship rather than literal years. The couple had indeed married in 1989, according to public records, suggesting the figure might symbolize emotional or spiritual longevity rather than actual time.

 

—

 

A Coaching Career Comes to a Close

 

Neal Brown took the reins at WVU in 2019, replacing Dana Holgorsen. He came to Morgantown after a successful run at Troy University, where he compiled a 35–16 record and gained national recognition for his methodical rebuilding strategy.

 

While Brown had some early promise with the Mountaineers, including bowl game appearances and a commitment to recruiting and player development, his tenure was often marked by inconsistency, criticism from fans, and growing pressure from the administration. This past season, while showing flashes of progress, ended with a disappointing 6–6 record, reigniting debates about the program’s direction.

 

 

—

 

A Marriage of Strength and Sacrifice

 

Coach Brown’s wife, Rita Setliff, has long been described as a pillar of quiet strength throughout his coaching journey. A former schoolteacher and active member of the community, she was often seen supporting him from the stands and engaging in Mountaineer community outreach.

 

Their relationship began in their hometown of Danville, Kentucky, where they met as students in the late 1980s. Over the years, Rita remained largely private, rarely granting interviews but always seen as a grounding force for Brown during the stress of football seasons.

 

In their statement, the couple emphasized that the divorce was not rooted in scandal or betrayal, but rather a gradual realization of personal and emotional divergence. “We have grown in different directions. This decision is painful, but made with clarity and compassion,” Rita shared in a separate note.

 

 

—

 

A Program in Transition

 

With Brown’s resignation, WVU faces yet another pivotal moment in its football program’s history. Athletic Director Wren Baker will now begin the process of identifying a new head coach to steer the team into what is expected to be an increasingly competitive and NIL-driven era of college football.

 

“We thank Coach Brown for his integrity, leadership, and the countless hours he poured into our student-athletes. We wish both Neal and Rita peace and healing as they begin this next chapter,” Baker said in a formal response.

 

 

—

 

Community Reaction: Shock, Support, and Reflection

 

The news quickly dominated social media and local sports radio, with fans expressing a mix of sadness and support. While some critics of Brown’s coaching record remained vocal, many focused on the personal difficulty of the situation, sending messages of encouragement and grace.

 

Longtime WVU fan and Morgantown resident Teresa Miller commented, “Wins and losses fade, but family is everything. You can tell Coach Brown loved this school and this community. We’re praying for him and Rita during this time.”

 

 

—

 

What’s Next for Neal Brown?

 

Brown has not indicated whether he plans to pursue coaching again in the future. His statement hinted at a break from the public eye, saying, “For now, I need to focus on healing, reflection, and finding purpose beyond the sidelines.”

 

As for Rita Setliff, sources close to the family suggest she will return to her hometown in Kentucky and continue involvement in educational outreach and women’s advocacy—two causes close to her heart.

 

 

—

 

Final Thoughts

 

The departure of Neal Brown and the end of his marriage to Rita Setliff marks more than just a coaching transition—it’s a human story of change, resilience, and emotional truth. In a world often dominated by statistics and scoreboard pressure, this moment is a solemn reminder that even the strongest public figures face deeply personal battles.

 

WVU enters a new chapter, while Neal and Rita turn the page on one of the longest journeys of partnership in modern college football history. The legacy they leave is not just in wins and losses—but in love, perseverance, and the dignity with which they chose to say goodbye.