Morris Berger: "I do not want to be a distraction for these kids." (Photo: GVSU Athletic Depoartment)
Saying you admire Adolph Hitler in any shape or form can be potentially harmful to your career. Just ask Morris Berger.
The Grand Valley State University offensive coordinator resigned Thursday, a week after being suspended for telling the school paper that a historical figure he'd like to have dinner with is Hitler, whose leadership skills, he said, were "second to none."
The resignation is effective immediately, the West Michigan university said in a statement.
Morris, who had been on the job just a week when he was sidelined, issued a statement:
"Over the last 11 years I have taken great pride in the responsibility and privilege of being a teacher, coach, mentor, and a valued member of the community. I was excited and proud to be at Grand Valley, and am disappointed that I will not get the opportunity to help these players in 2020.
"However, I do not want to be a distraction to these kids, this great university, or Coach [Matt] Mitchell as they begin preparations for the upcoming season."
The assistant coach also tweeted a longer statement Thursdsay afternoon, pledging to "work to regain the trust and respect of everyone that I have let down."
Mitchell said in a statement that the resignation was in the best interest of the team and university.
"Nothing in our background and reference checks revealed anything that would have suggested the unfortunate controversy that has unfolded. This has been a difficult time for everyone. I accepted Coach Berger’s resignation in an effort for him to move on and for us to focus on the team and our 2020 season."
Earlier:
Assistant Coach Who'd Dine With Hitler Is Suspended After 1 Week On Michigan Campus, Jan. 27
