Norwood stopped on suspicion of DUI
Humboldt State University men’s basketball head coach Tae Norwood was stopped by California Highway Patrol on Saturday evening on suspicion of driving under the influence.
“I am aware that my actions this weekend have disappointed and let down many people. No one is more disappointed in myself than I am. As the leader of the Humboldt State men’s basketball program I am responsible for holding myself to the highest standards and I take full accountability for my actions,” Norwood said in a news release from the university. “I would like to apologize to the HSU community, student athletes, coaching staff, and administration for such poor judgement. At this time, I will voluntarily be taking some time away from my duties as head coach.”
Norwood, who has yet to coach a game for HSU, was hired in May after a national coaching search conducted by the university. Norwood replaced formed head coach Steve Kinder.
The university’s athletic director Jane Teixeira said in a news release the men’s team will continue to hold limited practices run by Norwood’s staff as the coach takes time away from the team. The university nor Norwood has said how long the coach’s absence will be.
“I am disappointed in the situation but I respect coach Norwood. I am not surprised that he expressed regret about his lack of judgment in this incident,” Teixeira said in a news release. “He expressed to me his desire to learn from this matter and move forward as a better leader for the young men in the Basketball program. I believe this will be a teachable moment and I support Tae taking time to reflect on what happened.”
The university in a release said it is awaiting full details of the incident and will, “address any additional measures that are needed.”
“I would genuinely appreciate the opportunity to have a second chance and learn from my actions. I am sincere in both my remorse and regret, and my commitment to improve. During my time away, I plan to attend counseling and volunteer for community service,” Norwood said in the news release. “This experience will unequivocally help me become a better man, role model, and coach.”
The men’s basketball season has been postponed until 2021 by the California Collegiate Athletic Association due to the coronavirus pandemic and resulting state and county orders limiting full-contact sports.