Craig Cirbus, former Penn State offensive line coach who was replaced by Dick Anderson, will become an administrative assistant in the University's department of intercollegiate athletics, Coach Joe Paterno announced yesterday.

Cirbus joined the Lions in 1984 as a graduate assistant and became an assistant coach in 1987.

His desire to gain administrative experience coupled with the availability of Anderson were cited as reasons for the move, Cirbus said.

"We regret losing Craig's skills as a coach," Paterno said. "But he has approached me on a number of different occasions to discuss the possibility of broadening his administrative exposure with a view to his long-term future."

"I've coached on offense. I've coached on defense," Cirbus said. "I've been on both sides of the ball and now I'd really like to gain some key responsibilities within the administration of coaching."

Cirbus said he was not surprised that the Lions hired Anderson.

"Coach Paterno told me that there's a good chance that Dick Anderson may be available," Cirbus said. "I think Dick would do an awfully good job with the line."

Cirbus said that while he is pleased to assume the new position he regrets that he will not be working hands-on with the players. He feels this move is temporary and expects to be back on the field soon.

"I think between Coach Paterno and myself, I don't think it's a long-term adjustment," Cirbus said. "I feel comfortable that I can help the team in an administrative role and also have the support of Coach Paterno as being a good field coach that should something alter down the road he would not feel the least bit reluctant to have me go back on the field."

Paterno said Cirbus brings much to his new position.

"Craig will bring enthusiasm, and a lot of creative thought, to his new position," Paterno said. "We're pleased a situation presented itself that enabled us to accommodate Craig's ambition without losing his contribution to the football program."

Cirbus said he sees this opportunity as a chance to gain some experience toward his long-term coaching goals.

"I have an opportunity which I've been trying to seek in the last couple of years to gain some administrative experience which will fall in line with some of my long-term head coaching goals," Cirbus said.