Kevin Sumlin Delivers Emotional Farewell Message to Texas A&M Aggies Fans
In a heartfelt and emotional message, former Texas A&M head football coach Kevin Sumlin addressed the Aggie Nation, expressing deep gratitude and appreciation for his time at the university. Sumlin, who served as head coach from 2012 to 2017, helped usher in a new era of Texas A&M football as the team transitioned into the Southeastern Conference (SEC) and gained national prominence. Though his tenure ended amid mixed results, Sumlin’s farewell was filled with class, humility, and a clear affection for the program and its supporters.
“Thank you, great fans of Texas A&M Aggies,” Sumlin began in his message, which was shared across social media and Texas news outlets. “It has been an incredible honor to serve as your head coach. The memories we created together—those electric Saturdays at Kyle Field, the Midnight Yells, and the unshakable support from the 12th Man—will forever be a part of my life.”
Sumlin’s tenure at Texas A&M was marked by early success, including an 11-2 debut season in 2012, punctuated by a win over Alabama and a Cotton Bowl victory over Oklahoma. That same year, quarterback Johnny Manziel became the first freshman to win the Heisman Trophy, further elevating the program’s national profile. Under Sumlin, Texas A&M regularly brought in top-tier recruiting classes and developed NFL-caliber talent.
Despite the fast start, the Aggies struggled to maintain consistency in the highly competitive SEC West, finishing 8-5 or 7-6 in each of Sumlin’s final four seasons. The results eventually led to his dismissal, but many fans still remember his leadership during a pivotal moment in the program’s history.
“Coaching here was more than just wins and losses,” Sumlin said in his farewell. “It was about relationships—with players, coaches, the administration, and of course, the incredible Aggie fans. To every player who put on the maroon and white during my time, thank you. You inspired me every day with your commitment, toughness, and heart.”
Sumlin also extended his appreciation to his coaching staff and their families, as well as the broader College Station community. “This university and town welcomed me and my family with open arms,” he said. “We will always be grateful for that kindness.”
The message resonated with many in the Texas A&M community, who took to social media to thank Sumlin for his contributions and to wish him well in future endeavors. While his departure was bittersweet, Sumlin’s impact on the program, both culturally and competitively, remains significant.
“I leave with my head held high, proud of what we accomplished,” Sumlin concluded. “Texas A&M is a special place, and I will always be an Aggie at heart.”
As the Aggies look to the future, Sumlin’s time in College Station will be remembered as a transformative chapter in the school’s storied football history. His emotional goodbye serves as a reminder that beyond the game, the connections formed between a coach and a community can leave a lasting legacy.
