The University of Idaho confirmed that volleyball Head Coach Chris Gonzalez will not be placed on leave during the investigation into his alleged abuse.
“Coach Gonzalez is not on leave and the university does not intend, at this time, to put him on leave,” UI’s Executive Director of Communications Jodi Walker said in an email to the Argonaut. “A case manager from the Dean of Students office is present at every practice and players can opt out of practices, if that is their preference. We look toward a swift resolution but know that thorough investigations take time.”
Walker said Thompson & Horton, the third-party Texas law firm completing the investigation, has conducted nearly 40 interviews, totaling more than 80 hours “needing to be compiled.” The amount of evidence combined with dozens of interviews will take time to sift through, and UI has no specific timeline for when the investigation will be completed.
Players alleged that Gonzalez abused them physically, mentally, emotionally and verbally. They compiled a document of dozens of accounts of abuse and brought their concerns to UI administration, including Athletic Director Terry Gawlik.
In an interview with the Argonaut, an anonymous player said she felt the university brushed off these concerns and did not take them seriously. Although the investigation is ongoing and players are given the option to not attend practice, five players are still practicing with Gonzalez, according to the player.
Petitions on change.org for the dismissal and firing of Gonzalez have reached 552 and 321 signatures respectively as of Tuesday afternoon.
When asked why Gonzalez is not being put on leave, Walker said, “The investigation is still ongoing. The university is following the policies and procedures put in place and continues to have resources in place for players… This is definitely a difficult time for them.”
Joanna Hayes can be reached at [email protected]
Ed B.
Meanwhile, players have to interact with this Coach. Talk about making them even more regretful in signing a scholarship offer at Idaho! Should given the team to his assistant and given Gonzalez admin leave!