UK Head Coach Mark Stoops showed real leadership today in the streets of Lexington. Walking arm-in-arm with fellow UK coaches and players, he joined in protesting to end racism.

Through this past week we have seen coaches not handle the situation correctly, like Florida State Head Coach Mike Norvell who was called out by one of his former players for lying about talking to each player individually about addressing racism, before apologizing hours late. Mark Stoops handled this situation with unity, and even took a step forward joining the protests to prove it is not just “coach speak.”

“We’re here to fight racism, to bring awareness, and to do our part,” Stoops told the media after marching. “I think most of you know me, I keep things pretty tight to the vest with the media, but there’s no more of that on this issue. Everybody needs to get off the bench and make a difference, stand for something. We’re not going to tolerate any more racism and social problems. We want to make a difference and be a part of the solution.”

Stoops also sent out a statement via Twitter this evening:

pic.twitter.com/OK0CBisoyC

— Mark Stoops (@UKCoachStoops) June 6, 2020

The stand Stoops made drew support from current players, former players and even other team’s fans as the UK head football coach showed leadership outside of football. Here are some of the reactions on Twitter from current players:

My head coach stands with his players ✊🏾✊🏾 I’m not sure most people can say the same ✊🏾✊🏾 #BBN https://t.co/A1tkIjhdKW

— DeAndre Square (@d_square10) June 6, 2020

A real head coach! ✊🏾 https://t.co/p5klZDpmgD

— Joshua Paschal (@JPaschalx) June 6, 2020

UK Head Coach Mark Stoops showed compassion and how to be a leader today. With a platform that he has, it’ll go even farther in creating unity on the team, but even better, unity in Kentucky.