Florida’s Meyer resigns due to health
December 27, 2009
GAINESVILLE, Fla. (AP)—Urban Meyer is stepping down as coach at Floridabecause of health concerns that came to light when he was admitted to a hospitalbecause of chest pains following the Southeastern Conference championship game.
The 45-year-old Meyer resigned Saturday, calling it quits after five seasonsin Gainesville and two national titles. He leaves Florida with a 56-10 recordthat includes a 32-8 mark in league play and a school-record 22-game winningstreak snapped early this month against Alabama.
“I have given my heart and soul to coaching college football and mentoringyoung men for the last 24-plus years and I have dedicated most of my wakingmoments the last five years to the Gator football program,” Meyer said in astatement. “I have ignored my health for years, but recent developments haveforced me to re-evaluate my priorities of faith and family.”
Meyer said he consulted with his family, his doctors, school presidentBernie Machen and athletic director Jeremy Foley before deciding it is in hisbest interest to focus on his health and family.
Meyer will hold a news conference in New Orleans on Sunday afternoon andwill coach his final game in the Sugar Bowl against Cincinnati on New Year’sDay.
“Coach Meyer and I have talked this through and I realize how hard this wasfor him to reach this decision,” Foley said. “But the bottom line is thatcoach Meyer needed to make a choice that is in the best interest of his wellbeing and his family. I certainly appreciate what he has meant to the Universityof Florida, our football program and the Gator Nation. I have never seen anyonemore committed to his players, his family and his program. Above all, Iappreciate our friendship.”
Show your friends — and the nation — you know your college football. Sign up to play College Bowl Pickem!
Comments
Got something to say?
