Back to the Northwestern Wildcats Newsfeed

Illinois fires AD Mike Thomas, releases results from investigation into football misconduct

The University of Illinois has dismissed Athletic Director Mike Thomas on Monday, just months after firing head football coach Tim Beckman. Illinois also released a 1000-plus page report detailing misconduct within the school's football program.

Here are the major points of the investigation, courtesy of SB Nation's Kevin Trahan:

  • Beckman said he "does not believe in hamstring injuries."
  • Beckman would call a player "pussy," "sissy" or "soft" when they left to get injury assistance from trainers.
  • Beckman pressured trainers to prematurely clear players from injuries.
  • One one occasion, Beckman said, "I don't care if you're hurt, everyone is practicing when we get back.