I have never been more proud to be a Razorback fan than I am today! Not because of the circumstances, but of the decision made by Jeff Long. It takes great courage and conviction to stand up and make the proper decision in a seemingly impossible situation, but Mr. Long absolutely made the correct professional and moral decision. Winning is important, but not at the expense of trust, integrity and honor. Now is not the time for finger pointing, second guessing or the blame game. It is however, the time for Christian compassion and prayer.
The Petrino family needs our prayers and support as they will be in the process of mending their family. Jessica Dorrell also needs prayer and support. When people make mistakes, they need others who are willing to step up and help them learn and rebound from bad decisions. They do not need endless criticism and berating. There is not one of us that hasn’t made foolish decisions of his own. For we have all sinned and fallen short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23).
Sure, there is a lot of hurt and disappointment, but this will pass. You never lose when you place ethics and integrity first. Winning ball games will take care of itself. The Razorbacks and their fans will come out of this with their heads held high because the standard set by Jeff Long and the University of Arkansas has just raised the ethics bar for everyone else in college sports.
Wayne Easterly
Pine Bluff