The Ohio State University has issued a flurry of updates today in a single document regarding NCAA compliance matters which also includes a note that says Jim Tressel, former head coach of the football program, has reached a new agreement with the University and has withdrawn his resignation and is now entering retirement from the University.
Speaking about the compliance issues and his new retirement, he said, “I take full responsibility for my mistakes that have led to the ongoing NCAA inquiry and to scrutiny and criticism of the football program. I am grateful for this opportunity to retire from the university that I so deeply respect and that I will continue to support.”
More updates entail the University having issued its formal response to the NCAA’s Notice of Allegations regarding violations of off-the-field player conduct and Tressel being caught lying to NCAA officials that he was not aware of inappropriate conduct off the field by some of the players on his team. The problem was with some players exchanging autographed memorabilia in exchange for money at a local tattoo parlor.
In an effort to appease the NCAA, Ohio State has vacated every win that was won during the 2010 season in their formal response to the NCAA today. This includes the 2011 Sugar Bowl win earlier this year over the Arkansas Razorbacks. Ohio State is entering a two year, self-imposed NCAA probation as well.
What was already known was the University suspending five players for the upcoming football season for the first five games. This is something that the University has reiterated. Additionally, the University says it is committed to enhancing its monitoring, educational and compliance programs.