Southeastern Conference imposed $30,000 fine on Urban Meyer III. UF coach Urban Meyer was fined for criticizing the officials during Gator v/s Bulldog encounter. Florida Quarterback Tim Tebow was hit by Georgia player but no penalty was awarded by the match officials.

On Friday November 7, 2009 the Southeastern Conference announced that the University of Florida head football coach for the Florida Gators 45-year-old Urban Meyer III deserves the imposition of $30,000 fine. According to the details, the fine has been imposed on Meyer for the communal remarks he passed for the match officials last week.

During a game between Florida Gators and Georgia Bulldogs last Saturday, Bulldogs linebacker Nick Williams knocked down Tim Tebow of Florida Gators although he already had grabbed the possession of the ball. According to a later statement later on Wednesday by Meyer, the SEC officials should have flagged Nick Williams for his act which they didn’t and in other words; they missed a penalty.

Considering his statement seriously, the South Eastern Conference commissioner Mike Slive described it as the violence of the SEC bylaw 10.5.4. This particular code of ethics openly suggests that all the concern i.e. coaches, players as well as support staff, are bound to make any public criticism about the game or the officials. Further, ‘negative public comments on officiating’ are also not allowed.

This made Urban Meyer to state that he apologizes and that he respects the decision made by the SEC. “I have a great respect for Mike Slive and the SEC,” Meyer further added. However, he further described that there was not any intent of criticism involved whatsoever in his remarks.

Urban Meyer