Title: University of Vermont Fires Hockey Coach Todd Woodcroft Following Inappropriate Text Messages
Subheading: Assistant Coach Steve Wiedler Named Interim Head Coach for 2023-2024 Season
Burlington, VT – The University of Vermont (UVM) has taken swift action in response to allegations of inappropriate text messages involving men’s hockey head coach Todd Woodcroft. Following an investigation conducted by UVM’s Office of Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity, Woodcroft has been relieved of his duties effective immediately. Assistant coach Steve Wiedler will assume the role of interim head coach for the upcoming 2023-2024 season.
The investigation was initiated after UVM received a complaint on March 16, 2023. Woodcroft was instructed to work from home throughout the investigation and had no contact with any students involved in the complaint process. The Office of Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity thoroughly examined the evidence and determined that Woodcroft’s actions were in violation of the UVM Athletics code of conduct.
Although the nature and content of the text messages have not been disclosed, the final report was submitted to the Athletics Department on Monday. As a result, Woodcroft has been terminated without any additional compensation. The severity of the violation necessitated immediate action.
Woodcroft’s attorney, Andrew Miltenberg, expressed dissatisfaction with the investigation process and released a statement vowing to seek justice for his client. Miltenberg emphasized the need for a fair and unbiased approach, raising concerns about potential procedural errors during the course of the investigation.
Woodcroft had been the head coach of the Catamounts for three seasons, but his tenure was marred by disappointing results on the ice. With a record of 20-54-9 and just one playoff win, Woodcroft struggled to meet the expectations set by UVM’s Athletic Department.
UVM Athletic Director Jeff Shulman emphasized the importance of maintaining high standards of conduct within the athletic department. Shulman underscored that Woodcroft’s actions were not reflective of the values upheld at UVM and reaffirmed the university’s commitment to fostering a safe and respectful environment for all student-athletes.
Moving forward, the Athletic Department is focused on ensuring a smooth transition under interim head coach Steve Wiedler. The search for a permanent replacement for the men’s hockey head coach position will commence at the appropriate time.
For further updates and developments, stay tuned to Poh Diaries as we closely monitor this story.
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