Honesty and Integrity Matter

02-14-03

I’m Chuck Wilson with an ESPN Radio Extra Point,
Rick Neuheisel has apologized for not being more candid and says he will work hard at repairing the relationships he has damaged. The University of Washington head football coach said he was trying to honor a promise to the San Francisco 49ers to keep confidential his interview for their head coaching job. So, when asked if he had interviewed for the 49’ers job, he lied and said “no”. College coaches find themselves in a difficult spot when it comes to job interviews. If they admit interest, the alumni become angry and it hurts recruiting at their present school. A “no comment” is viewed as a “non-denial” and that too can be used against the coach in the recruiting battles. But lying is the worst route to take. Did Rick Neuheisel really think no one would ever find out he had interviewed with the 49ers? Lying erodes trust and confidence and cuts to the heart of ones’ personal ethics. Your honesty and integrity are at stake. It’s far too high a price to pay. If you can’t be completely upfront, then “decline comment” and live with the consequences.
I’m Chuck Wilson