The University of Vermont has fired a hockey coach after investigating “inappropriate text messages” with a student

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The University of Vermont fired its men’s hockey coach, Todd Woodcroft, on Tuesday.



CNN

The University of Vermont launched its men hockey The general manager, Todd Woodcroft, on Tuesday after the university conducted an internal investigation regarding “inappropriate text messages with a UVM student on multiple occasions that failed to maintain professional boundaries,” according to a statement from the Vermont administrator. athletics Jeff Shulman.

Shulman named assistant coach Steve Weidler on an interim basis Coach.

“The University of Vermont Athletic Department has high expectations for the conduct of the coaches and all those involved with the department,” Schulman said in the statement. “After reviewing the results of an investigation by UVM’s Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunities Office which was completed this week, it is clear that Coach Woodcroft has failed to live up to these expectations.

“Specific behavior that led to the investigation included inappropriate text messages with a UVM student on multiple occasions that failed to maintain professional boundaries,” Schulman’s statement continued. “Earlier today, I met with the men’s hockey team to inform them of my decision and to introduce Steve Wiedler as interim head coach for the 2023-2024 season. The team and I have great confidence in Coach Wiedler’s ability to successfully lead our program.”

University of Vermont

Woodcroft was hired by the university in April 2020 and has led the Catamounts to a 20-55-9 record over three seasons as head coach.

Woodcroft’s attorney Andrew Miltenberg issued a statement on Tuesday criticizing the school’s decision.

“We strongly disagree with the process and outcome of a proceeding that lacks fundamental fairness and due process,” Miltenberg said. We strongly believe that the university’s decision was contrary to the facts and the law. We intend to seek justice for Mr. Woodcroft, who has been an outstanding coach and community advocate for more than two decades.”

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Woodcroft was hired by the university in April of 2020 and has led the Catamounts to a 20-55-9 record over three seasons as head coach.

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