by Mizzou Matt
Pinkel had this to say regarding the arrest:
"Last night after practice, I met some friends for dinner. After dinner, I was stopped by a Boone County officer and received a citation for impaired driving. First and foremost, I am very disappointed in myself for my lack of judgment in this instance. Nobody should drink and drive, including me. My staff and I constantly reinforce with each of our players the importance of not putting yourself into a position such as this. I did not follow that here and for that, I sincerely apologize to the University of Missouri, to our administration, to the Board of Curators and to our fans. I have already met with our staff and communicated with our players and have apologized to them. I accept full responsibility for my actions and will abide by whatever course of action our leadership deems appropriate."A press conference was called this morning in front of Mizzou Arena, and the upper brass at the University have weighed in on Pinkel's situation, including athletic director Mike Alden and Chancellor Brady Deaton.
"We are extremely disappointed in Gary's lack of judgment," says Alden. "He is known as a man of great character and integrity. However, this absolutely goes against everything we stand for, and everything that he teaches his players in regards to our social responsibilities. We hold ourselves to very high standards, and this is a very serious breach of those responsibilities. We are gathering facts and will take action appropriately, and when those actions are determined, we will communicate them publicly."
Deaton added, "I was deeply disappointed to hear the news about Coach Pinkel. Coaches must hold themselves to the very highest of standards. His lack of judgment is especially concerning since he serves as a role model for our students. I expect Mike Alden to take appropriate action and he has my support in doing so. I also expect and believe that Coach Pinkel will accept full responsibility for his actions and will act in accordance with the standards he expects from his players."
Pinkel will not be coaching this weekend's final home game against Texas Tech, and he could also miss next week's Border Showdown against Kansas at Arrowhead Stadium. Defensive coordinator Dave Steckel will likely be the interim coach for the remainder of the season.
