first posted Wed. 11:55a.m. / last update last update Fri 6:37 p.m. - Texas Tech University has fired Mike Leach.
Before a hearing Wednesday morning to discuss a University-imposed by Texas Tech, Leach's personal attorney, Ted Liggett, received a letter from Texas Tech signed by President Guy Bailey terminating Leach's employment effective immediately.
Liggett shocked the courtroom full of spectators with the news. No hearing took place as scheduled.
According to the letter, Leach is in violation of Article Four of his contract. The article reads in part, "Coach shall assure the fair and responsible treatment of student athletes in relation to their health, welfare and discipline." The contract goes on to say the breach of those guidelines can result in penalties ranging from fines to termination.
Leach's suspension and subsequent firing comes after a complaint filed by wide receiver Adam James and his family.
The James family contends Leach treated Adam James improperly by putting him in a dark room during practice because of a concussion. The complaint says the incident happened about two weeks ago.
According to court documents filed by Texas Tech, President Bailey and Athletic Director Gerald Myers met with Leach Saturday to discuss the incident.
At the meeting, Leach was presented with a letter outlining the University's concerns and setting forth several conditions. As they read in the letter: "Any player claiming an injury will be examined by a physician and cleared in writing prior to practicing or playing; You (Leach) must recognize that the players you are working with are student athletes and that you have an obligation to treat them with respect and further to conduct yourself in a manner consistent with your position; You (Leach) must at all times assure the fair and responsible treatment of student athletes in relation to their health, welfare and discipline; There will be no retaliation against any student who has suffered an injury."
Leach was instructed to sign the letter confirming he'd received it. He refused to do so.
The University maintains these guidelines tie directly into Article Four of Leach's contract.
Texas Tech has canceled a press conference originally scheduled for today at 3p.m.
Liggett tells FOX 34 Leach will be filing a lawsuit against the University "soon."
Head Defensive Coordinator Ruffin McNeill is in place to act as interim head coach for the Red Raiders when they play Michigan State Saturday in the Valero Alamo Bowl.
