Art Briles Releases Statement to KWTX and ESPN's Mike and Mike

A week after being dismissed by the Board of Regents in conjunction with the release of the board's Findings of Fact and Pepper Hamilton's Recommendations, Art Briles released his first public comments on the situation to Julie Hays of KWTX and ESPN's Mike and Mike. He admits that he would have done things differently in hindsight and that his sympathy and prayers are with the victims of abuse everywhere.

He expresses his desire to share what he was aware of as soon as he can, but reiterates that he is contractually bound to silence. He also points out that the "complete scope of what happened here has not been disclosed," claims to have not seen any of the Pepper Hamilton report. He says, "I can only assume that the report, which is not independent, supports the conclusions already drawn."

Click here for Julie Hays' full story. The full text of the statement is below.

Baylor Nation,

My heart goes out to the victims for the pain that they have endured. Sexual assault has no place on our campus or in our society. As a father of two daughters, a grandfather, and a husband, my prayers are with the victims of this type of abuse, wherever they are. After 38 years of coaching, I have certainly made mistakes and, in hindsight, I would have done certain things differently. I always strive to be a better coach, a better father and husband, and a better person.

Keep in mind, the complete scope of what happened here has not been disclosed and unfortunately at this time I am contractually obligated to remain silent on the matter. The report prepared by Pepper Hamilton, the law firm hired and paid for by Baylor's Board of Regents, has not been shared with me directly, despite my full cooperation with the investigation. I can only assume that the report, which is not independent, supports the conclusions that the Board has already drawn. I hope to share with you what I was aware of as soon as I can so Baylor Nation can begin the healing process.

I have the utmost admiration for Baylor University, its community, and its important mission. I am truly grateful for having had the chance to coach hundreds of young student athletes at this University. I am deeply humbled for having had the opportunity to be a part of Baylor Nation.

Coach Art Briles