Northwestern University has denounced members of its football staff who wore controversial tribute shirts amid ongoing hazing allegations within the program. The university recently fired former head coach Pat Fitzgerald after facing multiple lawsuits related to hazing.
The shirts worn by the staff feature the slogan Cats Against The World with the number 51, which was the jersey number worn by Fitzgerald during his playing days at the school. The university’s vice president for athletics and recreation, Derrick Gragg, expressed disappointment and called the shirts inappropriate, offensive, and tone-deaf.
Northwestern University is committed to addressing hazing-related issues and conducting thorough investigations into any allegations of hazing or misconduct. An independent investigation conducted prior to Fitzgerald’s dismissal revealed evidence of ongoing hazing that involved forced participation, nudity, and sexually degrading acts. Although the investigation did not find credible evidence that Fitzgerald was aware of the hazing, the university stated that the head coach is ultimately responsible for the team’s culture.
To further address the issue, Northwestern has appointed former US Attorney General Loretta Lynch to lead an independent review of the athletics department’s culture and accountability mechanisms. This move comes as the university continues to face hazing lawsuits.
Interim head coach David Braun, speaking at the Big Ten Media Day, refrained from addressing the hazing allegations directly but acknowledged that it had been a difficult time for players and staff. Braun emphasized a focus on providing each player with the ultimate student-athlete experience moving forward.
The Northwestern Wildcats will kick off their 2023 season against Rutgers University on September 3 in New Jersey.
