Florida State president John Thrasher met with the Florida State football team Monday afternoon to discuss the off-field incidents that have marred the program in the past week.
In light of recent off-field incidents, I reiterated to our players that they simply cannot put themselves in situations that reflect poor behavior or cause harm to others. They must remember that playing football for FSU is a privilege, not a right. The actions of a few have the capacity to do serious damage to the reputation of our entire university. I told them their coaches, the Athletics administration and I will do all we can to support them and help them learn the values we expect them to uphold. But they will be held accountable for their actions.
Both quarterback De’Andre Johnson and running back Dalvin Cook are accused — in separate incidents — of punching women at bars. The incidents happened a day apart in late June, but came to light last week after Florida state attorney Willie Meggs decided to pursue charges against each player.
Johnson was dismissed from the program and Cook remains indefinitely suspended while the legal process plays out.
I also told the coaches what is expected of them. The administration will support them in their efforts to provide mentors, teach life skills and do whatever is needed to help our student-athletes be good students and good citizens. Coach Fisher and Athletics Director Stan Wilcox are developing a strong plan to help our student-athletes understand the consequences of poor behavior. As they move forward with that plan, I will continue to communicate with you regarding steps that will be taken. I will also invite professionals who deal with these matters to visit the team soon.
Thrasher also echoed coach Jimbo Fisher in saying the two incidents weren’t indicative of the majority of the student-athletes or even members of the football program.
Regardless, this has been unwanted attention for a program that has had its disciplinary process publicly questioned for more than a year.
For more Florida State news, visit Warchant.com.
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Graham Watson is the editor of Dr. Saturday on Yahoo Sports. Have a tip? Email her at dr.saturday@ymail.com or follow her on Twitter! Follow @YahooDrSaturday
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