Former Northwestern University football coach Pat Fitzgerald has filed a lawsuit against the school and its president, seeking at least $130 million in damages. The lawsuit alleges wrongful termination after allegations of hazing within the Wildcats football program surfaced.
Fitzgerald’s attorney, Dan Webb, claimed in a news conference that they are charging Northwestern and University President Michael Schill with breaches of contract, intentional infliction of emotional distress, defamation, and claims for punitive damages. They are seeking out-of-pocket economic damages of approximately $130 million.
The allegations of hazing came to light after an independent investigation initiated in December of 2022. The investigation revealed that 11 players, past and present, reported ongoing hazing within the program. However, the investigator did not find any credible evidence that Coach Fitzgerald knew about the hazing.
Despite the findings, Fitzgerald was initially suspended for two weeks before being fired. Webb alleged that Fitzgerald had an oral contract with Northwestern that he would not face further discipline, but he was unlawfully fired shortly after the suspension was announced.
Northwestern University spokesperson Jon Yates released a statement asserting that the six-month independent investigation confirmed hazing occurred under Fitzgerald’s watch. The statement emphasized Fitzgerald’s responsibility to know about and stop the hazing but failed to do so.
The lawsuit also claims that Fitzgerald and his family have experienced significant emotional distress as a result of the termination. Webb accused Northwestern of destroying Fitzgerald’s reputation without legitimate reason or evidence.
Steve Levin, an attorney representing former football players filing lawsuits related to hazing against Fitzgerald, commented that his clients will not be intimidated by Fitzgerald’s lawsuit. Levin criticized Fitzgerald’s lawsuit as lacking merit and accused the former coach’s attorney of calling the victims opportunistic liars.
Northwestern University and Webb were contacted for comment but have not responded. Levin expressed hope that Fitzgerald’s lawsuit would empower his clients to continue their legal action against the former coach.