Idaho Vandal Emma Patterson, a junior, transferred to the University of Idaho in 2023 to play volleyball, following in the footsteps of her family members who attended the university. However, Patterson soon found herself speaking out against alleged abuse by head coach Chris Gonzalez. Patterson, along with at least 12 other players, filed a complaint with the University’s Office of Civil Rights and Investigations (OCRI) detailing instances of mental, verbal, and physical abuse by Gonzalez dating back to 2022.
The abusive behavior included body shaming, ignoring medical advice, withholding food, and creating a culture of fear and intimidation. Patterson also revealed that an assistant coach drove players in a team van at dangerously high speeds. Despite the complaints, the athletics department took no action, prompting Patterson and her teammates to take their concerns public.
The University of Idaho initiated an investigation into the volleyball team’s culture as a result of the formal complaint. A limited no-contact order has been issued for all involved parties until the investigation is completed. Gonzalez has declined to comment until the investigation concludes.
Patterson plans to continue playing volleyball at the University of Idaho but is concerned about the next season if Gonzalez remains as head coach. She believes the athletics department is choosing an abusive coach over the well-being of the players. The investigation is ongoing, and the university is working to address the allegations brought forward by Patterson and her teammates.
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