EVANSTON (WBBM NEWSRADIO) - After his firing by Northwestern’s president amid a hazing scandal, former football coach Pat Fitzgerald defended his record.
Calling it a tremendous honor, Pat Fitzgerald said he nurtured players and instilled valuable qualities in them during his 17 years leading the football team.
The ex-coach said in a statement an outside investigation reaffirmed he had no knowledge of hazing and accused Northwestern President Michael Schill of unilaterally revoking a mutual agreement of suspension. He said his lawyer and agent will protect his rights.
Meanwhile, more former players have told the Daily Northwestern about a culture enabling racism on the team, including how Black players were made to cut dreadlocks but not white players and the team’s offensive and defensive lines were segregated.
Here is a Fitzgerald’s full statement, provided to ESPN:
"I had the privilege of serving as the Head Football Coach at Northwestern University for the past 17 years. As a former Wildcat player who played a part in the remarkable transformation of our program, it was a tremendous honor to have the opportunity to lead the team. I take great pride in the achievements we accomplished during my tenure, both on and off the field. I dedicated myself wholeheartedly to nurturing our players, not only as athletes but also as exemplary students and members of the community. Our program instilled in young men the qualities to become outstanding husbands, fathers, and valuable contributors to society. Our players were well-prepared to make a positive impact in the world, and I am confident in the success we achieved together. The overwhelming majority of players we coached, 99% to be precise, have provided positive feedback that affirms our efforts.
Attorney Maggie Hickey conducted a thorough investigation spanning several months into the allegations that led to my termination. Her investigation reaffirmed what I have always maintained—that I had no knowledge whatsoever of any form of hazing within the Northwestern Football Program.
Last Friday, Northwestern and I came to a mutual agreement regarding the appropriate resolution following the thorough investigation conducted by Ms. Hickey. This agreement stipulated a two-week suspension. Therefore, I was surprised when I learned that the president of Northwestern unilaterally revoked our agreement without any prior notification and subsequently terminated my employment.
Given this unexpected turn of events, I have entrusted my agent, Bryan Harlan, and legal counsel, Dan Webb from Winston & Strawn LLP, to take the necessary steps to protect my rights in accordance with the law."
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