Florida State coach Mike Norvell said he spoke to recipient Warren Thompson, who took to social media Thursday to express concerns about testing and transparency during the coronavirus pandemic.
Norvell on Monday said he had a “good conversation” with Thompson and that “we are moving forward together.”
Thompson on Sunday apologized via social media for his Twitter post last week in which he said he had lied on several occasions about tests and health protocols.
“With all the fear in the world, the confusion and concerns regarding this matter may cloud judgment over this emerging issue in this country,” Thompson wrote on Twitter before deleting his account. “I apologize for comments earlier this week that did not accurately reflect my feelings for this program [its] leadership. “
Teammates Tamorrion Terry and DJ Matthews also spoke publicly on Thursday about a lack of transparency in coronavirus testing at school. Shortly thereafter, several other Seminoles took to social media to voice their support for the program, including stars such as cornerback Asante Samuel Jr., defensive end Joshua Kaindoh and defensive tackle Marvin Wilson.
Norvell, who said he was “disappointed” by the original reports, said Monday that it was Thompson who fired him.
“I’m grateful for the opportunity to help him grow and develop to continue the relationship,” Norvell told reporters. “… This is one of the hardest times in our program … in our country. The fear, the unknown and a lot of the things that go on about it. I feel bad for all these guys who I coach and we are coaching, that they have to live through this experience.It will make us stronger.
“… I have been very transparent with every player I have talked to and with our whole team. We have had a good back and forth.”
ESPN’s David M. Hale contributed to this report.
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