Hoke issues statement on discipline

Michigan head coach Brady Hoke issued a statement early this afternoon, appearing to address the situation involving the enforced separation of placekicker Brendan Gibbons from the team and the University. Hoke did not mention Gibbons by name, and acknowledged he is limited in making any comments.

Here is what the statement had to say: "Michigan Athletics has no influence over any part of a review of a potential violation of the University's code of conduct - not the process, the investigation or the timing of the resolution.

"In general, while we may be aware of an ongoing proceeding, we always strive to balance transparency with privacy.

"Our usual approach is not to issue discipline related to a student's standing on the team before the University's process runs its course and the outcome has been determined. We will always respect the rights and confidentiality of the process and the parties involved. One way we do that is by not discussing the details of student disciplinary matters.

"So while I would like to be more forthcoming, I can't provide any details due to federal privacy laws and University policies.

"We talk every day with our kids about the importance of character and integrity. It's something we take very seriously, how we're going to do things the right way. We talk daily about your name and what it means. That's why you get into this as a coach, to help young men grow and learn and mature. We're held to those standards, and we hold them to that. I think I've made clear our expectations, and our actions and discipline involving incidents in the past have reflected that. And those standards will not be compromised."