Samford University has handed Todd Yelton, one of the most sought-after young women's soccer coaches in the country, a 10-year extension after he led the Bulldogs to an at-large berth in the 2007 NCAA Division I Women's Tournament from the unheralded Ohio Valley Conference.

Yelton, who has compiled a 76-31-1record in six seasons at Samford, was recently contacted by high-ranking officials from several major institutions regarding head coaching vacancies.

During his six years at the helm of the program, Yelton has led the Bulldogs to four OVC regular-season championships, two NCAA appearances, one OVC Tournament title and a second-round NCAA Tournament appearance. In 2005, Samford beat Vanderbilt in the opening round of the NCAA Tournament.

"This sends a strong statement about Samford's commitment to athletics when you can keep someone as talented as Todd Yelton in the Bulldog family," said Samford athletic director Bob Roller. "Todd and his staff have produced a top 40 team nationally, and there is no reason to think that we can't move higher in the coming seasons. We are fully committed to a strong, national women's soccer program, and this long-term deal solidifies our role as a team to be reckoned with in the next decade."