Sports

Norwood Teague Resigns as Minnesota's Athletic Director, Admits to Drunkenly Sending 'Inappropriate Texts'

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Norwood Teague announced his resignation as athletic director at the University of Minnesota (UM) amid sexual harassment allegations.

In a statement provided to KARE 11 in Minneapolis, Teague indicated the allegations and his resignation were directly connected.

"After careful and painful consideration, I've decided to leave the University of Minnesota," he told the news station. "At a recent University event, I had entirely too much to drink. I behaved badly towards nice people and sent truly inappropriate texts.

"I apologize to everyone involved. This neither reflects my true character or true character of this great, great university.

"I've taken immediate steps to get help with my alcohol issues and I take full responsibility for my actions."

The Minneapolis Star Tribune obtained a letter UM President Eric Kaler sent to the school's staff members addressing Teague's resignation.

"To be clear, sexual harassment will not be tolerated at the University of Minnesota and I sincerely regret that our employees experienced this behavior," Kaler wrote. "The University has an explicit policy and a strong code of conduct that articulates our standards. Ensuring a healthy learning, working and living environment for all in our University community is very important.

"My focus is to ensure the wellbeing of our students, faculty, staff and visitors across the University system. I am also working closely with Gopher Athletics to ensure a smooth leadership transition."

Kaler also announced that Beth Goetz, deputy athletics director and senior woman administrator, the school's interim athletic director until Teague's permanent replacement is found.

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