Iowa Fires Strength and Conditioning Coach Amid Recent Racial Controversy
By Jerry Trotta
Iowa has finally come to a decision regarding the future of strength and conditioning coach Chris Doyle, who has been accused by former players of being the prominent figure in a culture that held black players to a double standard.
Per college football insider Brett McMurphy, the Hawkeyes fired Doyle on Monday. Additionally, the university has held discussions with local law enforcement about conducting a more thorough investigation into the allegations of "racial disparities within the football program."
Iowa reaches separation agreement w/strength & conditioning coach Chris Doyle & engaged Kansas City law firm to conduct an independent review of issues and allegations relating to racial disparities within the football program
— Brett McMurphy (@Brett_McMurphy) June 15, 2020
Amid the civil unrest sparked by George Floyd's murder, several former Iowa players came forward on Twitter to recount instances of Doyle belittling them from a racial perspective. This included berating players who sported cornrows and tattoos, as well as stepping on his players' fingers during pre-workout stretches.
As part of Doyle's settlement agreement with Iowa, the embattled strength coach will receive a $1.1 million buyout and full health benefits for the next 15 months.
Former Iowa strength & conditioning coach Chris Doyle will receive $1.11 million buyout & full health benefits for next 15 months as part of settlement agreement from school
— Brett McMurphy (@Brett_McMurphy) June 15, 2020
Doyle held his post with the Hawkeyes throughout the entirety of head coach Kirk Ferentz's tenure with the program, starting in 1999. This news was expected, as it comes shortly after Ferentz announced the decision to place his assistant on administrative leave this weekend.