Former Ohio University football head coach Brian Smith is suing the school for wrongful termination after being dismissed in December over an alleged extramarital affair with an undergraduate student. The 45-year-old coach was fired for what the university described as 'serious professional misconduct,' following a brief period of administrative leave for undisclosed reasons.
Allegations and University's Claims
In a letter dated December 12, obtained by the Columbus Dispatch, Ohio University President Lori Stewart Gonzalez stated that Smith admitted to engaging in extramarital affairs, including one with an unnamed student. The letter alleged that the relationship occurred partly on campus, at the Ohio University Inn. Additionally, Gonzalez accused Smith of repeatedly using alcohol in his office, violating university policy, and appearing intoxicated during a public event.
Smith's Denials and Legal Action
Smith's attorney, Rex Elliott, strongly denied all accusations at the time. Now, Smith has taken legal action, filing a lawsuit on Friday in Ohio's Court of Claims. The suit claims the 'allegations were disputed and unproven' and that the university rushed to judgment, ignoring contractual obligations and prioritizing financial interests over a fair process. Smith's statement emphasized that the university's actions irreparably harmed his coaching career and that he is owed the full balance of his contractually agreed-upon compensation, which reportedly had roughly $2.5 million remaining through the 2029 season.
University's Response
A spokesperson for Ohio University insisted the dismissal was based on violations of the established terms within Smith's employment agreement. In a statement to ESPN, the university said the lawsuit is unfounded and that they will strongly defend themselves in court, declining further comment on pending litigation.
Prior Reprimand and Incident Details
In December, a personnel file obtained by The Athletic revealed that Smith had been reprimanded less than a week before his suspension. On November 24, Ohio athletic director Slade Larscheid and other administrators met with Smith regarding allegations of alcohol possession. A letter from Suzanne Durst, director of employee experience, noted that Smith acknowledged storing alcohol in his office desk drawer and consuming it after hours, occasionally with assistant coaches over 21. Smith emphasized that neither he nor the coaches were under the influence during work, but Ohio University prohibits alcohol possession or use while on duty. On November 25, Smith received a formal letter of reprimand. Smith had led the Bobcats to an 8-4 record in his first season.
