Brian Ferentz asks judge to dismiss racism claims made against him in lawsuit

Lang
8/20/22

University of Iowa assistant football coach Brian Ferentz is asking a judge to essentially dismiss a lawsuit brought against him by former players, addressing specific accusations of racism and addressing concerns with each of the plaintiffs’ cases during a Thursday court appearance.

Seven former Iowa Hawkeye football players are suing the school and members of the coaching staff…including Ferentz and his father, head coach Kirk Ferentz…for racial discrimination and harassment.

The players are seeking damages and other demands in a lawsuit filed in November of 2020.

According to The Cedar Rapids Gazette, on Thursday Ferentz defended his actions in such incidents as several players welcoming then-presidential candidate Donald Trump to campus and giving him a Hawkeye jersey in January of 2016. The offensive coordinator said the incident had no racial overtones and did not violate NCAA rules.

Ferentz also addressed specific accusations, plaintiff-by-plaintiff, and explained why each of the claims should be thrown out.

Trial is set for May 6th through the 18th of 2023.