Kentucky football Media Day is supposed to be an exciting time for the team that signifies how close the regular season is, but that was not the case on Friday.
Unfortunately, Kentucky coach Mark Stoops had to open his press conference by informing members of the media that one of his players and a member of his coaching staff are dealing with significant health issues. Sophomore defensive lineman Josh Paschal recently had skin lesions removed from his foot that revealed he has malignant melanoma, and offensive line coach John Schlarman is dealing with an undisclosed health condition.
We've got some tough news to deliver this morning. Coach Stoops has announced that Josh Paschal's skin lesions came back as malignant melanoma. Josh had a procedure this past Wednesday and they are waiting for the results to come back.
— Kentucky Football (@UKFootball) August 3, 2018
Offensive line coach John Schlarman is also dealing with a health issue. He will continue coaching but is undergoing testing.
— Kentucky Football (@UKFootball) August 3, 2018
"Our hearts and prayers are with Josh and John as they battle this issue," Coach Stoops says. #BBN, we could obviously use your thoughts and prayers as well for two incredibly strong men.
— Kentucky Football (@UKFootball) August 3, 2018
"We're very close to both of their families and spent time with both of the families this week. We will continue to be supportive and be family and be for them in any way we can." – Coach Stoops on Paschal and Schlarman's challenges
— Kentucky Football (@UKFootball) August 3, 2018
Paschal had another procedure on his foot Wednesday, and the results are pending. It’s unclear how much time he will miss. Stoops said he expects Schlarman to remain with the team and continue to coach, though he will be absent at times.
Here’s hoping both men get the treatment they need and have a quick road to recovery.
