Penn State extends head coach Cael Sanderson

Penn State's Cael Sanderson, the head coach of the two-time defending NCAA champions, has signed a contract extension that will keep him with the Nittany Lions through the 2017 season.

"I really appreciate the gesture by Dr. Joyner and the administration to actively pursue a contract extension," Sanderson said in a school release. "I'm thrilled that the University has confidence in our coaching team. With the hard work of Cody Sanderson and Casey Cunningham, this staff is fully enjoying their coaching responsibilities and we are excited to continue leading Penn State wrestling."

[GoPSUSports.com: Cael Sanderson signs contract extension]

Sanderson's new deal runs from July 1 of this year through June of 2017 at a base salary of $175,000 per year.

"It is a real pleasure to have Cael Sanderson at Penn State University," Acting Director of Athletics David Joyner said. "The leadership he provides to our student-athletes is of the highest order. I am extremely pleased that we are able to announce his new contract and commitment to Penn State. We look forward to many more successful years with Cael at the helm of our wrestling program."

Sanderson owns a career 87-18-2 record, including a 43-8-2 clip in three seasons at Penn State.