ESPN is reporting an attorney for former Washington State coach Nick Rolovich plans to file a lawsuit against the university for illegal termination, in part because of “discriminatory and vindictive behavior” by athletic director Pat Chun.
Washington State fired Rolovich and four other assistant coaches Monday night after they refused to comply with a mandate that required all state employees to be vaccinated against COVID-19. Gov. Jay Inslee had set a deadline of Monday for employees to be vaccinated, or to receive an exemption and accommodations from their direct supervisors. WSU athletic director Pat Chun on Monday said Rolovich’s firing is a for-cause separation, noting that he could not meet the requirements in his contract, which paid him $3 million annually.
Brian Fahling, an attorney in Kenmore, Washington, who is representing Rolovich, confirmed in a statement to ESPN that Rolovich’s request for a religious exemption based on his “devout” Catholic faith was denied by the university. (ESPN)
