MOSCOW, Idaho — Amid an investigation into alleged abuse of his players, the University of Idaho head volleyball coach has been placed on administrative leave.
The university confirmed to KREM 2 Wednesday that head coach Chris Gonzalez has been placed on administrative leave. This comes after more than a dozen Vandal volleyball players reported suffering mental, verbal and physical abuse by Gonzalez as far back as 2022.
The university said it expects the investigation into Gonzalez to be finalized in the coming weeks. At that point, university president Scott Green will determine what steps need to be taken.
At least 13 University of Idaho volleyball players claim they suffered mental, verbal and physical abuse by Gonzalez, dating back to 2022. Last October, a formal complaint was filed against Gonzalez with the University’s Office of Civil Rights and Investigations (OCRI). It lists alleged offenses including "body shaming," "ignoring medical advice and putting players at greater risk of injury," "withholding food," and "creating a culture of fear, humiliation, embarrassment and intimidation."
Players previously told KREM 2 that Gonzalez physically pushed a girl to the ground during practice when he jumped into the drill. Players also said Gonzalez called the girls "linebackers," implying that they need to lose weight.
Players were given the option to opt out of volleyball practice while the investigation is ongoing.
"We will continue to provide resources and support to our student-athletes throughout the conclusion of this process as well as after," said Jodi Walker, the university's executive director of communications.
KREM 2 reached out to Gonzalez for comment but has not received a response.
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