Valparaiso director of athletics Mark LaBarbera announced today that Dale Carlson has been relieved of his duties as head coach of the Valparaiso University football program, effective immediately.

Carlson, the 16th head coach in Crusader football history, was in his fourth season leading the Valpo football program and departs with a 3-40 record at Valpo.

"We appreciate all the effort Dale Carlson has made during his time at Valpo to bring quality student-athletes to our campus that represent the university through their hard work on the field and in the classroom," said LaBarbera.  "But the on-field results during his tenure have not met the expectations of the university, and consequently, we have decided it best for the future of our football program that we move in a different direction."

Assistant head coach Mike Gravier will serve as head coach for the Crusaders' season finale at Brown Field this Saturday, Nov. 16 at 1 p.m. against Dayton.  A national search for the next head coach of the Valparaiso football program will begin immediately.