Columbus Aviators head coach Ted Ginn Jr. will return to the sideline Friday after missing one game following his DWI arrest in Euless, Texas, on April 11.
ESPN reported on Tuesday that the league disciplined Ginn and cleared him to resume coaching duties. The Aviators posted video to X on Tuesday showing Ginn addressing the team after practice.
Ginn's Statement
Ginn posted a statement to X on Sunday, the day of the Aviators' game in Dallas.
"I made a serious mistake and take full responsibility for my actions," Ginn wrote. "I've always believed in accountability and now it's my turn to live that standard."
He said he understands the responsibility of being a leader and role model, and called the situation something he does not take lightly.
"I'm committed to learning from this, making better decisions, and earning back the trust of my players, our organization, and the fans," Ginn wrote. "My focus now is on taking the necessary steps to grow from this and represent the Columbus Aviators and this community the right way."
Aviators Fall to Dallas Without Ginn
Offensive coordinator Todd Haley served as acting head coach Sunday. The Aviators lost 28-23 to the Renegades at Toyota Stadium in Frisco, dropping Columbus to 0-3 and Dallas to 3-0.
Columbus led 10-7 in the second quarter behind a Jalan McClendon touchdown pass and a 53-yard Ryan Coe field goal. Two McClendon interceptions changed the game. Both led to Dallas touchdowns, and the Renegades built a 28-10 lead in the third quarter.
The Aviators fought back with two late scores from John Lovett and Antwane Wells to pull within 28-23. A failed two-point conversion and a fourth-and-12 stop by Dallas ended the comeback.
McClendon finished 26-for-34 with 214 yards, two touchdowns and two interceptions.
What Comes Next
Ginn will coach Friday night when the Aviators host the Renegades at Historic Crew Stadium. Kickoff is at 8:00 p.m. ET on FOX.
The legal case remains open. The DWI charge is classified as a Class B misdemeanor in Texas.
Columbus faces an undefeated Dallas team that has beaten the Aviators, St. Louis Battlehawks and Houston Gamblers through three weeks. The Aviators need a win to avoid an 0-4 start in their first season.
The UFL has not announced any additional discipline beyond the one-game absence.