Freeze apologizes to Ole Miss fans: 'What I did was wrong'

Former Ole Miss head coach Hugh Freeze issued an apology Saturday to fans of the program through a written statement to Neal McCready of RebelGrove.com.

Freeze resigned in July after an investigation into his phone records revealed "a pattern of personal misconduct."

"While I realize a statement from me could be met with criticism and more negative attention, I believe I owe the Ole Miss family an apology for the pain and disappointment I’ve caused them," Freeze wrote. "With this being an open week for the football team, and with the NCAA hearing behind us, this seemed to be the right time for me to speak from my heart."

The school uncovered a call made from Freeze's phone that was linked to an escort service.

"As you know, in July of this year Ross Bjork asked me about a concerning number discovered in my phone records," Freeze added. "In the days that followed, I shared with him the truth about my past, ultimately resulting in my resignation. It’s a truth I’d already shared with my wife, Jill, and with two of my closest friends months earlier.

"While some of the things being reported about the matter are inaccurate, or in some cases completely false, it’s much more important for me to tell you that what I did was wrong, and there’s no justification for me making the selfish decisions that I knowingly made. I know I’ve hurt many people, especially those in the Ole Miss family, and I am asking you to forgive me for what I’ve done. I miss being a part of Ole Miss but will be pulling for our team every Saturday this season. To my faith family, I ask for your forgiveness and appreciate your prayers as well."

The full letter can be read here.

Freeze went 39-25 in five seasons at Ole Miss.