Ohio State football coach Jim Tressel violated NCAA Bylaw 10.1 when he failed to notify the university about information received involving two football student-athletes who were allegedly trading memorabilia for tattoos, the school self-reported to the NCAA on Tuesday.
Ohio State issued a press release which says the school found out about the issue on January 13 “while reviewing information on an unrelated legal issue” and has been looking into the allegations ever since.
“I am disappointed that we find ourselves in this situation. I want to thank the NCAA for being responsive and working collaboratively with us on this case. We ask Buckeye Nation to be patient as we resolve this matter and we thank them for all the support that they provide to our programs,” Athletics Director Gene Smith said in a press release. “I think everyone knows how I feel about Jim Tressel. There is no better coach at developing young people than Jim.”Tressel, who will have to issue a public reprimand and apology, undergo a two-game suspension, attend at a compliance seminar and pay a $250,000 fine as issued as part of the self-imposted sanctions, was apologetic in the release.
“I am sorry and disappointed this happened. At the time the situation occurred, I thought I was doing the right thing,” Tressel said. “I understand my responsibility to represent Ohio State and the game of football. I apologize to any and all of the people I have let down. I will grow from this experience.”Despite these issues, Tressel’s job is not in jeopardy.
“Wherever we end up, Jim Tressel is our football coach. All of the speculation about him being terminated is not warranted,” Smith said during a press conference Tuesday evening. “No question in my mind that his decision was from the heart.”