JMU football coach Everett Withers on UNC academic fraud investigation

Statement from JMU football coach Everett Withers on the investigation into academic fraud at the University of North Carolina:

“I would like to make a brief statement regarding the ongoing academic fraud investigation at UNC.  In a report issued yesterday by UNC’s outside counsel, it was stated that I was unwilling to participate in their investigation. This is simply not true. On two occasions, I offered to answer any questions they might have in writing or via video conference. Neither of these options worked for UNC’s outside counsel. So for them to represent that I was unwilling to cooperate is disingenuous to say the least.

“I got into this profession 26 years ago because I had a strong desire to make a positive impact in the lives of young men both as students and athletes through the sport of football. My entire career I have tried to do that with honesty and integrity and I remain steadfast in doing that here at JMU.”

Statement from Jeff Bourne, JMU Director of Athletics

“Last December we conducted a thorough and comprehensive search to identify our next head football coach. Bill Carr, of CarrSports Consulting, assisted the search committee by performing background checks and additional character research on  several candidates through discussions with administrators and coaches at various institutions, including those at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill. Through this work, Mr. Carr validated the perception of the search committee that Everett Withers was the ideal choice to become the next head football coach at JMU. We are assured of Everett’s leadership and character as displayed through his daily work on our campus and with the young men in our program.”