Ohio State Releases Statement On Jim Tressel's Resignation As Head Football Coach

The resignation of Jim Tressel as head coach of Ohio State football has officially been accepted by university president Gordon Gee, according to a statement released by the school on Memorial Day. The full statement can be seen below.

Tressel resigned suddenly on Monday following months of scandals and investigations around the Ohio State football program. Co-defensive coordinator Luke Fickell will coach the school in 2011.

Columbus, OH – The Ohio State University announced today that it has accepted the resignation of Jim Tressel as head coach of its football program. Luke Fickell will serve as interim head coach for the 2011-2012 football season. Recruitment for a new head coach – which is expected to include external and internal candidates – will not commence until the conclusion of the 2011-2012 season.

“In consultation with the senior leadership of the Board of Trustees, I have been actively reviewing matters attendant to our football program, and I have accepted Coach Tressel’s resignation,” said President E. Gordon Gee. “The University’s enduring public purposes and its tradition of excellence continue to guide our actions.”

Jim Tressel said, “After meeting with University officials, we agreed that it is in the best interest of Ohio State that I resign as head football coach. The appreciation that Ellen and I have for the Buckeye Nation is immeasurable.”

Athletics Director Gene Smith said, “We look forward to refocusing the football program on doing what we do best – representing this extraordinary University and its values on the field, in the classroom, and in life. We look forward to supporting Luke Fickell in his role as our football coach. We have full confidence in his ability to lead our football program.”

(Statement via NCAA Rumor Mill)