BIRMINGHAM, Alabama -- Bill Clark was scheduled to address the media, following the announcement that UAB's football program had been shut down today.
However, that press conference, originally set for 4 p.m. outside the Blazers', football facility was cancelled.
Instead, Clark, who guided the Blazers to a 6-6 (4-4 in Conference USA) regular-season record in his first and lone seasons at the helm, released a statement.
You can read it, in its entirety, below.
This is one of the most difficult days I have had to endure in my personal as well as coaching career.
I am absolutely heartbroken for my players and assistant coaches. These coaches and players have done a tremendous job and worked extremely hard for this university, to achieve six wins and be bowl eligible.
Sometimes we as people do not understand why certain things happen; however my faith tells me that God has a plan for the lives of our players, my coaching staff, and for me and my family.
I am grateful for the opportunity I have had here at UAB and making so many new relationships during my time here.
There is no doubt in my mind that we were in the process of building something special at UAB. This goes further than our football team, the athletics program, or the university as a whole. This team is Birmingham -- we represent Birmingham and this community.
It is unfortunate that it has come to this. But again, it is a decision that has been reached and I must respect it and will move forward.
Thank you Birmingham and the UAB Community for everything you have done for our players, this coaching staff and me personally.
Kindest Regards,
Bill Clark
Head Football Coach