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CANTON, Ohio: In his first public speech since being suspended and penalized for breaking NCAA regulations, Ohio State coach Jim Tressel apologized multiple times in front of a packed house of some of his most devoted supporters.
At a luncheon hosted by the Pro Football Hall of Fame, Tressel addressed a group of 400 people, many of whom were Ohio State supporters dressed in the school’s red and gray uniforms. During his 40-minute speech, which was centered on overcoming hardship, Tressel won over the supporters of the Buckeyes.
In his opening statement, Tressel stated that “due to the nature of the investigation,” he was unable to discuss any details on the recent issues at Ohio State.
He answered, “But I can tell you this.” “You are all members of Buckeye Nation, in my opinion. I truly regret everything that we have gone through. I’m sorry I couldn’t locate someone to work with in order to manage our challenging and intricate problem.
“I also want to apologize because I’ll be facing some consequences. However, the goal remains unchanged. That is my promise to you. My goal has always been to ensure that we assist young people in making life changes.”
Tressel, who was wearing a charcoal suit and a dark crimson tie, expressed regret for distracting Ohio State’s basketball team, which is rated first and will start as the top seed in this week’s NCAA tournament.
Tressel was also made to apologize in public and received a public reprimand as part of the sanctions the institution imposed, which were made public last week.
Tressel was questioned if his speech constituted his public penitence before being driven off to the airport.
“I’ve tried to apologize all along,” he stated.
As soon as Tressel walked into the room at Tozzi’s on 12th restaurant, he was met with a courteous standing ovation. Several former players, including Tim Anderson and Dustin Fox, who were part of Ohio State’s 2002 national championship squad under Tressel, accompanied him for the luncheon.
As soon as Tressel walked inside the restaurant, Fox gave him a hug. Fox has been upset by criticism directed at Tressel, some of it caustic.
“I don’t think you can judge one man’s character or legacy off one instance,” Fox stated. “Perhaps there was a mistake in judgment. I also don’t doubt his motivations. Attempting to walk in his shoes is difficult.”
Tressel received a $250,000 fine and a two-game suspension last week for not informing the school about information he received in April regarding two players and dubious actions involving the sale of memorabilia.
In 2011, five Ohio State players received five game suspensions for selling jerseys and other memorabilia to a local tattoo parlor owner who was the subject of a federal drug trafficking investigation.
Tressel, an enormously beloved member of the Ohio State community who has been there since 2001, may face further sanctions from the NCAA.
Known for his captivating and captivating public speaking, Tressel interjected a few jokes during his address. He made a joke about having offered OSU’s football team a slot to Buckeye freshman basketball player Jared Sullinger.
“I told Sullinger, tight end,” Tressel remarked. Not even practice is necessary. Simply appear.”
Almost all coach Tressel’s address was devoted to dissecting Ohio State’s roster position by position, providing supporters who paid $12 for a supper of mashed potatoes, corn, and pork chops with an inside look at a program that is currently being scrutinized more than at any previous point during his tenure.
When Tressel opened the floor for questions after thirty-two minutes, none of the supporters in attendance inquired about the current unrest in Columbus.
A man asked one of the last questions, inquiring about Tressel’s response to the criticism he has received from the media. In response, Tressel recalled that he had discussed handling difficult situations with his players the previous week.
“I told them this, one of the neat things about adversity is that you hear from some people how they appreciate what you have been in their lives,” he continued. “Some people who don’t think that highly of you also let you know.” Refrain from becoming enraged with them. That isn’t good for you.”
Tressel answered one final query.
“Yes, sir,” he responded, gesturing to the rear of the space.
“Coach, we all know you’ve got a lot going on in your life right now,” said an individual. “Look after your own needs. Keep going.”
Tressel snaked through the throng after leaving the dais, shaking hands and pausing on his way to the door to sign an autograph for a fan who was confined to a wheelchair. Former Ohio State offensive lineman Kirk Barton trailed him closely.
“Which airport are we going to?” As Tressel got into a waiting car, he asked at the driveway entry.
Then Tressel was driven off, waving and thanking a few well-wishers.
