University of Iowa strength and conditioning coordinator Chris Doyle released a statement on Sunday, just one day after he was placed on administrative leave. His comments come after former Hawkeye football players made claims of racial disparities within the program.

“For 21 years, I have committed my life to Iowa Football and loved with all my heart, every single one of the young men I’ve gotten to work with and every minute we have spent together in the weight room, on the field and as friends and fellow Hawkeyes. I can only imagine how much courage it took for them to speak out on these serious matters. I am proud of them.

“My job has been to give feedback to our players for 21 years and now I am receiving feedback myself. I can take it and I won’t hide from it. It saddens me to hear the stories of their difficult experiences while in our program, in addition to the outpouring of stories we are hearing across this country.

“It is time to listen, learn and grow. Most importantly, it is a time for action.

“I have been asked to remain silent, but that is impossible for me to do. There have been statements made about my behavior that are not true. I do not claim to be perfect. I have made mistakes, learned lessons and like every American citizen, can do better. At no time have I ever crossed the line of unethical behavior or bias based upon race. I do not make racists comments and I don’t tolerate people who do. I am confident that a complete review of the body of work over 21 years will speak for itself and I am trusting the process to respect the rights and experiences of all parties involved. There are countless men of character who are better fathers, husbands, activists, leaders and contributors to society due to their experience at Iowa Football. The record will show this.”

On Saturday night, head coach Kirk Ferentz announced that Doyle was placed on administrative leave.

Friday, former Iowa offensive lineman James Daniels tweeted out “There are too many racial disparities in the Iowa football program. Black players have been treated unfairly for far too long.” His comment resulted in several former players also speaking out through social media.

Several of the stories that former players shared involved Doyle.