The preliminary report on University of Idaho Head Coach Chris Gonzalez is still being written, according to UI’s Executive Director of Communications Jodi Walker.
UI volleyball players claimed Gonzalez was physically, mentally, verbally, and emotionally abusive during his tenure. Players reported these claims to UI administration in September 2023. UI opened an investigation into the reports in November 2023.
Almost four months later, the investigation is yet to be completed. Walker confirmed on Feb. 26 that Thompson & Horton, the third-party law firm conducting the investigation, had completed the interviews and started writing the report.
Walker said in an email on Wednesday “There is no change. We hope to receive the report soon – but note that this is the preliminary report. There is a response period, typically 10 days, after that where either side can respond to the report. After that, it is finalized and that is what the president will review.”
Gonzalez has not been placed on leave during the investigation. Practices are still being held, with a majority of the players choosing not to attend. With the preliminary report yet to be completed, the 10-day response period, and the need for a revised final report, the results of the investigation as well as a decision on Gonzalez’s employment could take weeks or even months to come out.
When the report is completed, only the parties involved will receive a copy, according to Walker. This includes Gonzalez, the players, and President Scott Green. Walker said the report may be restricted to the wider public if there is “sensitive” information regarding the players’ academics, citing the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act.
Joanna Hayes can be reached at [email protected]