Michigan State University plans to fire its head football coach, Mel Tucker, after four seasons. The university’s athletic director, Alan Haller, reportedly informed Tucker of the university’s decision by letter earlier today.
“I, with the support of administration and board, have provided Mel Tucker with written notice of intent to terminate his contract for cause. This notification process is required as part of his existing contract. The notice provides Tucker with seven calendar days to respond and present reasons to me and the interim president as to why he should not be terminated for cause,” Haller stated.
“This action does not conclude the ongoing Office for Civil Rights case; that rigorous process will continue.”
Tucker has been accused of making several unwanted advances toward sexual assault awareness speaker Brenda Tracy. More specifically, the soon-to-be former football coach allegedly masturbated while on the phone with the accomplished speaker in April. Tracy formally shared her concerns with the university in December and canceled an on-campus speaking engagement shortly thereafter. Nearly a year later, the ongoing investigation resulted in Tucker’s impending termination.
In Tucker’s absence, Harlon Barnett has been upgraded to interim head coach and former head coach Mark Dantonio has returned as a consultant. The Spartans will return to Lansing for a Big Ten showdown with the University of Maryland Terrapins.
