Miami Assistant Football Coach Jon Wauford Resigns
1/25/2003 12:00:00 AM | Football
Jan. 25, 2003
Miami University assistant football coach Jon Wauford has resigned his position, effective no later than May 4, the end of the academic year, in order to seek employment elsewhere, Miami officials announced today.
In his resignation letter, Wauford said he regretted "that the incident at Marshall brought such unfortunate, negative publicity to the football program, and although I have enjoyed my association with Miami University athletics, I have decided that it is in the best interest of Miami University, my family, and me to move on."
Wauford, 32, was accused by West Virginia police of battery for allegedly striking a Marshall fan who had run out onto the field after Marshall's 36-34 victory on Nov. 12, 2002. He has pleaded not guilty to the charge.
The trial date has not been set, and Wauford indicated he was concerned "that Coach (Terry) Hoeppner and the staff could not plan adequately for spring practice and for next season as long as my situation remains up in the air. As tough as this is for me to leave my alma mater and my players, I need to do what is best for the program."
"Coach Wauford's resignation brings a close to a lamentable incident in Miami athletics. We respect Coach Wauford's decision and hope that Miami can continue to be seen as representing the highest standards for sportsmanship and integrity," commented President James C. Garland.
Miami officials indicated the university may still take disciplinary action if Wauford is convicted of a crime.
Wauford, a 1995 Miami graduate, recently completed his third season as Miami's defensive coordinator.
