Gus Malzahn announced Thursday night that Kristi Malzahn (wife of UCF coach Gus Malzahn) has returned home from more than two weeks in hospital with an infection.
Gus Malzahn wrote that Kristi is now home and doing much better. “We can’t praise enough the staff at Orlando Regional Medical Center. “The doctors, nurses, AND everyone at ORMC have been beyond reproach; I will forever be grateful to them all.”
, the Knights coach initially shared that ‘s wife was admitted to hospital with an infection on January 17. The nature of the infection and whether it was COVID-related have not been disclosed.
Auburn and UCF fans, where Gus Malzahn was a coach from 2013-20, shared their support and prayers with the Malzahn family.
Malzahn wrote, “I want to thank everyone who reached out to check Kristi, as well as all of the prayers for our family.” “It has been overwhelming and greatly appreciated.”
Kristi and Gus Malzahn celebrated 33 Years of Marriage this summer.
Malzahn wrote, “Praise God for Kristi’s healing and looking forward to her continued progress.” “I am in awe at how tough she is!”
He also thanked UCF’s healthcare workers, including Mary Vander Heiden, head football athlete trainer.
Malzahn wrote, “Mary, our team’s athletic trainer and our team doctors, have been incredible and there is no enough thanks for them,”
Gus was clear that Kristi was an important part of the UCF team from the moment he was hired last February.
“We had spoken before and planned to sit out [2021] but when the job became available, I think she knew that we would be taking a serious look at it,” Malzahn stated previously to the Orlando Sentinel. “And then, when [AD] Terry Mohajir got hired, I said, “If he calls, we will go.” and she agreed. This is where we also decide together about jobs.”
Kristi quickly became UCF’s team mom, much like her days at Auburn.
Kristi stated that her husband tells people they do it together, and she believes it in a large way. “He can do it without me but I add a new layer to the mix. I’m thankful that he asked me and wants me around as there are a lot people who wouldn’t.”