Consequences don’t fit the mistake in Tressel case
Mar 9, 2011, 5:46 PM | Updated: 9:05 pm
For every mistake you make there are consequences. The severity of the mistake depends on the harshness of the consequences.
Sometimes the consequences don’t allow you to learn from your mistake and hold the same position.
This column is about one of those times where it’s being allowed and it shouldn’t.
The consequences for Ohio State football coach Jim Tressel do not fit the mistake.
Tressel was tipped off about players he’s responsible for and in charge of for allegedly being involved with a federal drug-trafficking case and did nothing about it (or definitely not enough). In those emails he was told about his players giving away school memorabilia in exchange for free tattoos.
Tressel knew about possible NCAA violations. He allowed possible ineligible players to play an entire season. He said nothing even when the U.S. attorney notified the school in December of a federal investigation that included players, denying having any prior knowledge for at least another month (I’m going to say he conveniently waited until after the Sugar Bowl).
At the press conference Tuesday evening Tressel wore a black sweater (I’m going to guess it was a vest) under his jacket. It was symbolic of the dark day for Ohio State. It should have also symbolized the end of “The Vest” wearing scarlet and grey vests.
Tressel is not just a football coach; he’s much more than that. He’s also a CEO, leader, mentor, father figure and teacher.
The leader of young men coming under his guidance as boys out of high school and leaving as men into the real world.
