The University of Maine announced that Joe Harasymiak will be the next football head coach, according to a university statement.

Harasymiak was named interim head coach when Jack Cosgrove stepped down in November.

“I am extremely excited and honored to be chosen as the next head football coach here at the University of Maine,” said Harasymiak. “To think of all of the great head coaches who have come through here, and to be selected to be part of that group, is humbling. I can’t wait to get started.”

Harasymiak’s contract is a four-year deal at $150,000 per year, according to a statement.

Harasymiak was one of four finalists after a nationwide search according to the statement.

Harasymiak was the defensive coordinator and linebackers coach for two seasons with the Black Bears. He was hired by the University of Maine in February 2011 as a defensive assistant with the defensive backs. In April of 2012, Harasymiak was promoted to head defensive backs coach.

Previously, Harasymiak was a graduate assistant coach with the wide receivers and quarterbacks at his alma mater, Springfield College and was an assistant coach at Maine Maritime Academy in 2008.

Harasymiak earned his Bachelor of Science in Physical Education from Springfield College in 2008.