AUBURN, Ala. — In a release directed toward Auburn football fans, university president Jay Gogue urged the Auburn Family to stick with the football team after its 1-6 start to the 2012 season.
These are the first public comments by either Gogue or athletic director Jay Jacobs regarding the Tigers’ rough campaign, which has seen Auburn slink to the bottom of the SEC West standings at 0-5.
Gogue added that many fans have contacted him, and said “the football program will be evaluated in an objective, thorough and professional process.” Head coach Gene Chizik has been listed in national blogs as a coach on the hot seat, despite his national championship season just two years ago. Chizik is not directly mentioned in Gogue’s message.
Here is Gogue’s statement:
A Message to the Auburn Family about Auburn Football
The Auburn spirit is part of everything we do – in the classroom and beyond. It includes the spirit we show when we support those who represent us on the playing field.
Later today, Auburn students and the local community will gather to cheer on the football team as they practice. I encourage others to follow their example by coming together and getting behind the young men who wear the orange and blue each fall Saturday.
In the past few weeks, many of you have contacted me, and I appreciate everyone who has taken the time to share your thoughts about the football program. I know your concerns are sincere and heartfelt, and I share many of them. As we do every year, the football program will be evaluated in an objective, thorough and professional process.
For everything there is a time, and now is the time to support. The young men and women – our students – who make up Auburn University are grateful for the dedication of their extended Auburn Family. So am I.
War Eagle!
Jay Gogue