Nov. 27, 2000

"It has been a real pleasure to work at Wake Forest University and have an opportunity to serve as head football coach. While I am certainly disappointed to no longer serve in that capacity, I will leave knowing that the football program is poised to move forward. There are many outstanding football players on campus right now and that will make the transition easier for the next head coach.

My concern right now is not for me but for the players, who are dealing with a situation they have not endured previously. My other concern is for my coaching staff, which did a tremendous job and worked extremely hard. We did not reach all of our goals, but to be the fourth Wake Forest coaching staff to reach a bowl game is an accomplishment.

I would like to take the opportunity to thank the Wake Forest fans who have supported our program and the entire athletic department.

I have a great deal of respect for Dr. (Thomas) Hearn and Ron Wellman and I appreciate the opportunity that they afforded me eight years ago."