22-year-old senior Emma Patterson from Boise is set to attend volleyball practice at the University of Idaho, despite accusing her coach, Chris Gonzalez, of physical and emotional abuse. Patterson is standing up for herself and her teammates, who have also made allegations against Gonzalez. She feels it is important to not be silenced by the school’s inaction. The team, which finished 1-27 last season, has seen several players transfer due to the coach’s behavior.
The athletic department has been criticized for not taking action against Gonzalez despite numerous complaints from players, parents, and employees. Patterson and her teammates have sought support from the Office of Civil Rights and Investigations, but concerns have been raised about the objectivity of the law firm hired by the university to conduct a review of the volleyball team’s climate and culture.
Former Vandal volleyball player and booster, Haley Larsen Janicek, has spoken out against the university’s handling of the situation, questioning the fairness of the investigation. Texas attorney Chad Dunn, who represented the Baylor University survivors in a similar case, also raised concerns about the law firm’s track record in defending universities against claims of discrimination and assault.
Despite facing challenges, Patterson remains determined to fight for what is right and to ensure the safety and well-being of herself and her teammates. The lack of action from athletic director Terry Gawlik, who was made aware of the abuse allegations in 2022, has left the players feeling unsupported. Patterson and her teammates are now looking for ways to protect themselves and hold the university accountable for their actions.
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