Tom Brands issues public apology to Wisconsin wrestler Austin Gomez
IOWA CITY, Iowa – Iowa wrestling coach Tom Brands met with the media on Wednesday to preview this coming Saturday’s dual against Oklahoma State, but he began his press conference by making a public apology to Wisconsin wrestler Austin Gomez.
Gomez said that he and his family were subjected to racist taunts during the Iowa-Wisconsin dual this past Saturday at Carver-Hawkeye Arena.
He released a long statement on social media detailing what he claims happened.
The University of Iowa has responded to the allegations by launching an investigation.
“Before we talk about this weekend I would like to address what happened to Austin Gomez on Saturday and extend an apology to him and his family,” Brands said. “No athlete, no parent, no opposing fan should have to go through what he went through ever anywhere.
“This world has a lot of work to do on social injustice issues and that work is important on our campus and that work is important in our athletic department. And it’s important in our wrestling program. And it’s important to me. Diligence is high.”
Second-ranked Iowa defeated the Badgers 29-6, but the win has been overshadowed by Gomez’s accusations.
Iowa is now preparing to face Oklahoma State on Saturday in what is being called the “Bout at the Ballpark” in Arlington, Texas. The dual will begin at 7 p.m. at Globe Life Field in Arlington.
Here is Head Coach Tom Brands publicly apologizing to Gomez when he faced the media today (via @RobHoweHN):pic.twitter.com/iMScr8FMT3 https://t.co/tMd3U3RpX5
— Dallas Jones (@DallasJonesy) February 9, 2022