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Posted on Tue, Jun 28, 2011 : 3:44 p.m.

Michigan basketball coach John Beilein on Austin Hatch: 'He continues to be in our thoughts'

By AnnArbor.com Staff

Michigan basketball recruit Austin Hatch, who remains in critical condition in a drug-induced coma following a plane crash Friday, "continues to be in our thoughts and prayers," according to a release from basketball coach John Beilein.

Beilein noted in the release that the NCAA has worked with Michigan to relax some recruiting restrictions in the wake of the single-engine plane crash Friday near Charlevoix that injured Hatch, 16, and killed his father, Dr. Stephen Hatch, and stepmother, Kim.

Hatch is in the Munson Medical Center in Traverse City and visitors are limited.

The full release from Beilein:

To All Fans and Supporters of Michigan Athletics,

Our basketball program and the Michigan community were saddened to hear about the tragedy that affected the Hatch family late Friday evening. Austin needs as much support right now as possible and he continues to be in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

We are grateful that the NCAA has relaxed some of the contact restrictions currently in place to accommodate this unique set of circumstances for our coaches. We appreciate that they and Big Ten Office are working with us throughout this situation. Both groups have been in communication with our compliance office and continue to provide valuable insight on a daily basis.

The outpouring of support from our Michigan faithful, coaches, administrators and fans across the country has been overwhelming. We are thankful for all the support that has been offered to the Hatch family. We appreciate that the NCAA will continue to work with us and act in the best interest of everyone involved.

Thanks for your continued prayers for Austin and the Hatch family.

John Beilein

Comments

maxim

Wed, Jun 29, 2011 : 2:52 a.m.

How about the headline including Beilein's entire quote "continues to be in our thoughts and prayers" ? Don't worry, no one will be mistaken for a holy roller ...

mamabear

Wed, Jun 29, 2011 : 12:37 p.m.

agree