Jerry Kill Retires In Emotional Press Conference
Jerry Kill retired in an emotional press conference on Wednesday morning. He is stepping down due to health concerns, stating "this is the hardest thing I've ever done."
Jerry Kill is stepping down as the head coach of the Minnesota Golden Gophers football team due to health concerns. Kill addressed the media on Wednesday morning regarding his retirement in what was a very emotional press conference.
Here is what he had to say on his tough decision to walk away.
On the fans
“The fans that have been loyal through the good times and the bad times. We can’t thank them enough.”
On his career
“I’ve given every ounce that I have for 32 years to the game of football and the kids I’ve been able to coach.”
On his health
“You know the struggles I’ve been through, and some of them have returned. I don’t want to cheat the game.”
On retiring due to health concerns
“This is the toughest thing that I’ve ever done in my life.”
On his decision to retire
“I don’t want to coach from the press box. I want to coach the way I’ve coached my whole life.”
On walking away from the game
“I’ve left it all right here in the great state of Minnesota, and I have no regrets.”
On the decisions he and his wife have made
“We both say we’d do it again. Damn right.”
On the coaching staff
“We know where we’re going, and there’s no better people to take it there than our staff.”
On why he’s stepping down
“This isn’t about Jerry Kill, this is about a group of people.”
On his talk to the team
“I talked to our kids this morning. I looked every one of them in the eye, and told them the same things I told them when I coached them… you can’t play football forever.”
“Told them I loved them, I cared about them, and do anything in the world to help them.”
On his determination
“I love this game, I don’t want to let our University down. I want to win.”
On his foundation to benefit people with epilepsy and seizures
“I hope to see you down the road. I have a Chasing Dreams foundation that I need to make sure is successful. Maybe that’s my next calling.”
