Coach Beilein Issues Letter to U-M Fans, Supporters Regarding Hatch Family
Press release posted at mgoblue.com:
Coach Beilein Issues Letter to U-M Fans, Supporters Regarding Hatch Family
June 28, 2011
To All Fans and Supporters of Michigan Athletics,
Our basketball program and the Michigan community were saddened to hear about the tragedy that affected the Hatch family late Friday evening. Austin needs as much support right now as possible and he continues to be in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
We are grateful that the NCAA has relaxed some of the contact restrictions currently in place to accommodate this unique set of circumstances for our coaches. We appreciate that they and Big Ten office are working with us throughout this situation. Both groups have been in communication with our compliance office and continue to provide valuable insight on a daily basis.
The outpouring of support from our Michigan faithful, coaches, administrators and fans across the country has been overwhelming. We are thankful for all the support that has been offered to the Hatch family. We appreciate that the NCAA will continue to work with us and act in the best interest of everyone involved.
Thanks for your continued prayers for Austin and the Hatch family.
For those who would like to send a note of support, the family has requested all well-wishers use the website -- http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/AustinHatch
Good to hear the NCAA has done this (not that anyone would think they wouldn't... potential recruiting violations clearly take a back seat here) and that Beilein and the coaching staff will be able to provide some extra support for him.
great letter by JB, still feel really sorry for Austin, it sucks to lose loved ones.
Prayers and best thoughts remain in order.
Classy move by JB, the University, and the NCAA in this time of need for the Hatch family. I wish Austin the best in his recovery, and my condolescenses for his loss.
ESPN's Dave Telep posted this tweet about an hour ago:
Austin Hatch: still in induced coma. Stable/critical. Movement in all limbs. Coma is to prevent more brain swelling. Keep prayers coming
Also, while John Beilein's letter doesn't provide details on exactly what the NCAA will allow Michigan's coaches to do, Sam Webb said on WTKA this morning that "a very, very strong source" told him that "Michigan will be able to call, will be able to visit, will be able to attend the funeral" for Austin's father and stepmother.