Norm Chow signed a five-year contract today worth an annual base salary of $550,000 to become the next head football coach for the University of Hawaii.

Chow could earn bonuses for bowl appearances, bowl victories, coaching honors, national rankings and nationally televised victories.

Chow is scheduled to appear at a press conference and reception Thursday at 3 p.m. at the Stan Sheriff Center. The 65-year-old Punahou School alum from Palolo will be the 22nd head coach in university history and the first Asian-American head coach of a major program.

"I am extremely honored to receive the privilege of leading the University of Hawaii football program," Chow said in a news release. "It is very humbling. This is a program with great history and I feel excited and energized about creating a program that will make all off the people of Hawaii feel pride for the university and our state. I am looking forward to coming home to family and friends, and I am going to do my best to contribute to the rich history of Hawaii and its progress."

UH athletic director Jim Donovan echoed those sentiments, saying he was happy and proud to welcome Chow as the next head coach.

"Obviously Norm is one of the best offensive minds in the country and we are thrilled that he’s able to come home to lead our football program," Donovan said. "This is special not only for the university but for him. His wide-open offense and name recognition will only help us in recruiting the top talent to our university and football program.”

Chow replaced Greg McMackin, whose annual salary nearly doubled Chow’s. Chow expressed interest in having enough money to attract a talented coaching staff.