Iceland12
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Minnesota isn't alone in looking for a Head Coach without a permanent A.D.
http://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/college/ct-illinois-fires-mike-thomas-20151109-story.html
Illinois will conduct a press conference today at 11 a.m. in Champaign and will be streamed live on FightingIllini.com.
“Mike Thomas has done a good job of leading through recent challenges,” Wilson said. “Decisions such as these are always difficult, but we have to focus on the best interests of our student-athletes. I believe this decision allows everyone to move forward.”
Senior associate athletic director Paul Kowalczyk will be the interim director, effective immediately. Kowalczyk has been at Illinois since 2012.
The athletic department has faced scandal and criticism since the spring. Seven former women's basketball players filed a $10 million racial discrimination lawsuit, several football players alleged player mistreatment by coach Tim Beckman, who was subsequently fired, and a women's soccer player also sued the school for medical mistreatment of concussions.
In a statement released by the university today, Thomas said: "I understand the administration’s decision to turn the page and turn the focus of this organization back on the success and welfare of our student-athletes. The reports indicate that I acted appropriately and immediately whenever I learned of any issues related to the safety and well-being of our students. However, I understand the chancellor’s viewpoint that my continued presence may create an ongoing distraction for our students, coaches and staff, and I accept the situation...
http://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/college/ct-illinois-fires-mike-thomas-20151109-story.html
Illinois will conduct a press conference today at 11 a.m. in Champaign and will be streamed live on FightingIllini.com.
“Mike Thomas has done a good job of leading through recent challenges,” Wilson said. “Decisions such as these are always difficult, but we have to focus on the best interests of our student-athletes. I believe this decision allows everyone to move forward.”
Senior associate athletic director Paul Kowalczyk will be the interim director, effective immediately. Kowalczyk has been at Illinois since 2012.
The athletic department has faced scandal and criticism since the spring. Seven former women's basketball players filed a $10 million racial discrimination lawsuit, several football players alleged player mistreatment by coach Tim Beckman, who was subsequently fired, and a women's soccer player also sued the school for medical mistreatment of concussions.
In a statement released by the university today, Thomas said: "I understand the administration’s decision to turn the page and turn the focus of this organization back on the success and welfare of our student-athletes. The reports indicate that I acted appropriately and immediately whenever I learned of any issues related to the safety and well-being of our students. However, I understand the chancellor’s viewpoint that my continued presence may create an ongoing distraction for our students, coaches and staff, and I accept the situation...
