Texas' Applewhite was disciplined in 2009

(AP Photo/Michael Thomas)

By JIM VERTUNO

Associated Press

AUSTIN, Texas (AP) Texas offensive coordinator Major Applewhite acknowledged Friday night that he was disciplined by the university for an inappropriate relationship with a student during the Longhorns' trip to play in the Fiesta Bowl after the 2008 season.

In separate statements and a document released from Applewhite's personnel file, Applewhite and athletic director DeLoss Dodds said the former Texas quarterback had his pay frozen in 2009 and was ordered to undergo counseling. Applewhite also was warned that a repeat offense would have more serious consequences.

In his statement, Applewhite, who is married and one of the most popular assistants on Mack Brown's staff, said he was embarrassed by the incident. Neither Applewhite or the school released further details.

"It was a one-time occurrence and was a personal matter," Applewhite said. "Shortly after it occurred, I discussed the situation with DeLoss Dodds. I was upfront and took full responsibility for my actions. This is and was resolved by the university four years ago. Through counsel, I have worked with my wife and the incident is behind us."

Gene Powell, the chairman of the Texas Board of Regents, and system Chancellor Francisco Cigarroa said they learned about the discipline "a short time ago" and their reaction was "great disappointment and sadness."

"At our direction, the General Counsel to the Board has posted notice of a special called meeting of the Board on Sunday afternoon, February 3rd, so that the Board can be fully briefed on issues related to this matter in executive session," Powell and Cigarroa said in a joint statement.

Dodds called the incident "inappropriate," but noted it was also something that happened between consenting adults.

Dodds said the university's legal office looked in the matter.

"We have high standards for behavior and expect our staff and coaches to adhere to them in all aspects of their lives," Dodds said. "I believe the appropriate discipline was taken in this case."

Texas women's track coach Bev Kearney resigned in January as the school was in the process of firing her for having a relationship with one of her athletes in 2002. In 2011, the university paid $400,000 to a former administrative assistant who complained of sexual harassment by Cleve Bryant, a former top athletic official in the football program.

Updated February 2, 2013