Former Auburn coach Bryan Harsin makes statement after firing

The statement is Harsin’s first words after his firing.

Former Tigers head coach [autotag]Bryan Harsin[/autotag] has spoken out for the first time since his firing.

Harsin released a statement through ESPN analyst Cole Cubelic’s Twitter account. The statement comes after Harsin was fired shortly after Auburn announced the hiring of its new athletic director, [autotag]John Cohen[/autotag].

Here is Harsin’s full statement:

“I am incredibly disappointed that I won’t get to lead the Auburn football program and these players into the future. I poured my heart and soul into this program and team. We stood together in the face of considerable challenges and outside noise.

Through my entire time at Auburn we did things the right way, which is not always the easy way. I am very proud of the resolve shown by everyone in our facility and incredibly grateful for those at Auburn who stood by me and my family. I am certain that this group of players will do great things.

I will miss you guys tremendously but will always be there for you and do anything I can to help moving forward. Thank you for believing in me.

Like any coach with the benefit of hindsight, there are things that could have been done differently. I don’t pretend to be perfect but I am certain I will be better moving forward because of this experience.

I truly believe Auburn has the potential to be a championship program once again. The resources, financial support and fan base are in place. There are good people throughout this program and University. With complete alignment, the possibilities are endless.

I hurt for the coaches, staff members and families who are left in limbo. This team and staff came here fully committed to our vision of what we could accomplish in time. That time has been cut short. They will all persevere because of their tremendous character and ability and I will do everything I can to help them with this transition.

As is life, my family and I will now turn the page and chart our next course, always grateful for the positive relationships formed and memories made on the Plains. Thank you for allowing us to be a part of the Auburn Family.”

Harsin’s former Boise State coaches and staff on the squad have slowly begun to be released from the team, beginning with offensive coordinator Eric Keisau and tight ends coach Brad Bedell being fired on Monday. On top of that, strength and conditioning coach Jeff Pitman was relieved of his duties on Tuesday.

Running backs coach Cadillac Williams will take over for Harsin for the rest of the season.

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