Dan Lanning discusses contract extension, long-term commitment to Oregon

Dan Lanning might be entering his second season with Oregon but the two sides already have a long-term commitment to one another. The Ducks signed Lanning to a contract extension recently, keeping him in Eugene through the 2028 season. An impressive move for the program, especially with Pac-12 conference realignment ongoing.

From the moment Lanning came over from Georgia, he made things clear. He wanted to be the head coach at Oregon and to this day, he cannot believe the opportunity is ahead of him. Being able to lock down his future in a place he loves was a big deal for Lanning.

“As you coach, all you really want to focus on is being at a place where you can win and raise your family,” Lanning said. “Since the day I got here, it’s been no secret I wanted to be here. I’m thrilled about the opportunity that was given to me to become the head coach at Oregon. It means a lot to me, I never take it for granted. Wake up every morning and I pinch myself.”

But more than anything, deciding to commit his future to Oregon came down to family. Lanning has done a lot of moving over the years, bouncing around as an assistant. Staying with the Ducks allows his kids to grow up and finally have some stability.

“The love for this place and what it provides for my family in a place that they can be and have some consistency,” Lanning said. “I’ve got three kids, they’ve lived in eight states. It’s nice to be able to see them graduate from the same school.”

Dan Lanning sees alignment throughout Oregon

A big term used by head coaches around the country is “alignment.” It’s something they value, hoping others at the University are committed to having a winning program. Usually, the athletic director and University president are involved when discussing the topic.

Lanning believes Oregon has exactly that, with everyone at Oregon wanting to win. They have proved so in the recent past under a few other head coaches. The mindset remains the same under Lanning.

“When you know there is a bold vision for what’s next,” Lanning began. “When you know there is opportunities for more things down the road. You see the commitment and alignment of our University. As a coach, you’re willing to sign up for that. Winning is a priority here. We have what it takes to win.

“When you have what it takes to win and you can have some consistency for your family, that shows how much belief there is with Oregon and what we’re going to achieve.”