Today, FAU football’s season went up in smoke.
As first reported by Brett McMurphy of ESPN.com, Owls head coach Carl Pelini and defensive coordinator Pete Rekstis have resigned over reports of “illegal drug use.”
At a 4:00 p.m. press conference in the Recruiting Room of FAU’s Football Stadium, Athletic Director Pat Chun confirmed that both Pelini and Rekstis quit after university officials learned about their drug use earlier this week.
“It is a heartbreaking day for us all,” Chun said.
Pelini and Rekstis were escorted off campus by police, though no criminal charges were filed against them. Pelini wasn’t present at the conference, but issued a statement, apologizing for his actions.
“I apologize for exercising poor judgment,” Pelini said. “My greatest concerns at this time are for my family, the dedicated FAU players and my staff. I am confident that Pat Chun and the University administration will continue to move the program forward.”
Chun wouldn’t reveal which illegal drugs Pelini and Rekstis allegedly consumed — ESPN reported it’s marijuana — saying only that FAU is in the midst of an investigation and will conclude it “swiftly and decisively”.
Offensive coordinator Brian Wright will serve as FAU’s interim head coach, and linebackers coach Jevan Dewitt will take over defensive coordinator duties.
According to Chun, no other coaches or players were involved in what he’s now calling a human resources matter.
“[Pelini and Rekstis] admitted to wrong doings and they resigned on the spot,” Chun said.
Pelini was hired in December of 2011 and accumulated a 5-15 record during his time at FAU. The Owls (2-6) have four games remaining in the 2013 season. They host Tulane on Saturday for their Homecoming Game.
