Pinkel: "I failed miserably'

Gary Pinkel speaks to the media Monday in Columbia.
Gary Pinkel speaks to the media Monday in Columbia.

COLUMBIA - University of Missouri football coach Gary Pinkel made a public apology Monday in his first comments following his arrest Wednesday on a charge of driving while intoxicated.

"I've always tried to be a good, positive role model, but last week, I failed miserably," Pinkel said. "Now it's up to me to begin earning everyone's trust and respect back, and that's what I intend to do. This will never, ever happen again."

Pinkel, who spoke at his lawyers office because he is not allowed on campus until Thursday as part of his one-week suspension, called the incident one of the most "devastating things that has ever happened to me."

Pinkel, who is in his 11th season as Missouri's head football coach, pleaded guilty to the charge Friday morning in Boone County Circuit Court. His attorney, Bogdan Susan, said the quick nature of the process was because Pinkel wanted to accept responsibility and move forward as quickly as possible.