As if this hasn't been a hard enough week for the University of Missouri and its fans, here comes news Friday evening that the Tigers football coach Gary Pinkel is resigning because of health reasons.
It was learned that Pinkel was diagnosed with cancer back in May but continued to coach. But apparently the illness is forcing him to take an early retirement.
Pinkel will coach the rest of the 2015 season and the bowl game; the Tigers are 4-5 right now with a few weeks to go.
Pinkel made these comments via USA Today and the University of Missouri Athletic Department.
"I still feel good physically, but I decided that I want to focus on enjoying my remaining years with my family and friends, and also have proper time to battle the disease and give full attention to that," Pinkel said in a statement.
There is an outpouring of love and respect from current and past players such as Michael Sam, whom played for Pinkel and supported him when he came out as gay a few years ago.
Sam said on Twitter: "Thank you for everything you have done for me. You gave me a family that I so desperately needed and for that I am grateful."
Since joining the SEC a few years ago, Pinkel has lead his Tigers to back-to-back SEC East titles and were just a step away of going undefeated just a few short years ago.
Pinkel has been at Mizzou for 15 years and has a 117-71 record.
Just a few days earlier, Pinkel took a stand with his players as they protested the treatment of black students on the Missouri campus. You have to wonder if the stress of the season and the recent unrest on campus, was too much for Pinkel's health.
© Copyright 2024 Sports World News, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
