Former Northwestern football coach, Pat Fitzgerald, has filed a lawsuit against the university seeking at least $130 million in damages for wrongful termination. Fitzgerald, who was suspended and later fired amid allegations of hazing within the program, is now fighting back against his alma mater’s decision after an investigation cleared him of any wrongdoing.
Key Takeaway
Former Northwestern football coach, Pat Fitzgerald, has filed a
30 million lawsuit against the university for wrongful termination. The lawsuit includes claims of breach of contract and defamation. Fitzgerald, who was cleared of any wrongdoing in an investigation, is seeking compensation for economic damages, punitive damages, future loss of income, and emotional distress.
The Lawsuit
In a press conference announcing the “major” lawsuit, Fitzgerald’s attorney, Dan Webb, slammed Northwestern’s decision to fire his client after 17 seasons. Webb argued that if there was ever a coach at Northwestern University who should not have been terminated, it would be Coach Fitzgerald. The lawsuit includes claims of breach of contract on two occasions and defamation.
Webb is calling for Northwestern to pay not only for the economic damages Fitzgerald suffered but also for punitive damages, future loss of income, and the infliction of emotional distress.
Fitzgerald’s Legacy
Fitzgerald is a celebrated figure at Northwestern, not only for his coaching career but also for his time as an All-American linebacker for the Wildcats in the ’90s. Over the course of his tenure, he led the program to a 110-101 record.
