TODAY’S TALKER

New FSU coach Norvell apologizes after being called out by players

Florida State’s Mike Norvell apologized Thursday after a star player accused the coach of lying about personally connecting with each player to discuss the police killing of George Floyd and ensuing protests against racial injustice.

Defensive tackle Marvin Wilson said Wednesday on Twitter he and teammates were “outraged” by Norvell’s characterization of the contact the white, firstyear coach had with the players. Wilson, who is black, went back to social media Thursday to say the matter was settled.

“Took a stand we got what we wanted & we are moving forward,” Wilson wrote on Instagram. He also posted a nearly four-minute video detailing how the team plans to register to vote and raise funds for organizations that help send young black people to college and aid poor children in the Tallahassee area.

Norvell released a statement saying it was a mistake to say he had connected with every player individually.

“Particularly at this time, words are important, and I’m sorry,” Norvell said.

Florida State Athletic Director David Coburn, making a scheduled appearance on a call with the school’s Board of Trustees earlier Thursday, told the board about the meeting involving the Seminoles players and Norvell, who has been in the job for about six months.

“I’m told the dialogue was open and very candid and that it went well. I believe we are moving on there,” Coburn told the board.

In his Thursday post, Wilson wrote he appreciated Norvell for encouraging him to “use his platform and speak for what me and teammates believe in.”