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University of Missouri's Head Football Coach Apologizes for DWI Arrest
By: Jessica Hartman | 11/18/2011
Yesterday, I read that Gary Pinkel, University of Missouri's (my alma mater) head football coach was arrested a couple of nights ago for a DWI. While this news is very disappointing, I will say that I am impressed by his response.
In September, I posted three tips for effective apologies, and I wonder if Gary Pinkel read it? Ok, that's not likely, but he did do a pretty stellar job of apologizing despite the fact that he made a very dumb and dangerous decision.
His apology: "Last night after practice, I met some friends for dinner. After dinner, I was stopped by a Boone County officer and received a citation for impaired driving. First and foremost, I am very disappointed in myself for my lack of judgment in this instance. Nobody should drink and drive, including me. My staff and I constantly reinforce with each of our players the importance of not putting yourself into a position such as this. I did not follow that here and for that, I sincerely apologize to the University of Missouri, to our administration, to the Board of Curators and to our fans. I have already met with our staff and communicated with our players and have apologized to them. I accept full responsibility for my actions and will abide by whatever course of action our leadership deems appropriate."
His apology followed all of the tips I recommended for an effective apology. Let's briefly review his course of action:
- Just apologize already! Gary Pinkel apologized the day after his arrest, and he did so early on in the day.
- Be sincere. His apology seems pretty sincere to me, and he took full responsibility for his actions.
- Back it up. He clearly stated that he will abide by whatever course of action our leadership deems appropriate.
What do you think? Is Gary Pinkel's apology for his drunk driving arrest appropriate? Should he have said more? Less?
Posted in
comments
Ashlyn Brewer says:
Tue, November 22, 2011 at 11:21:am
Great analysis, Jessica.
I do think it’s worth pointing out that a great apology is important, but it does only go so far. As a Mizzou alumni, I’m still profoundly disappointed! State Universities often are thought of more for alcohol and football than their academics, and Pinkel helped drive in that message.
Chris says:
Mon, November 21, 2011 at 5:08:pm
While Pinkel’s decision to drink and drive was a poor one, his decision to make an immediate and meaningful apology was a good one. There are several others I can think of (Herman Cain) who could benefit from following his lead. Good tips; thanks for sharing!