Northwestern interim football coach declines to address hazing allegations at Big Ten media day

Speaking at the Big Ten football media days, Northwestern University interim head football coach David Braun declined Wednesday to address reporters questions about the hazing allegations in the university's athletic program, saying he trusts the school will choose the right path forward.

Several former players are suing the school, claiming the university's football program "has had longstanding issues involving hazing and bullying that takes on a sexual and/or racist tone." At least one ex-player is also suing former head coach Pat Fitzgerald.

And last week, attorneys representing at least 15 former student athletes announced plans to sue the university over allegations its athletics department fostered a "toxic culture" that facilitated harassment and sexual abuse. At least one former volleyball player has also filed a lawsuit alleging hazing in that program, according to a copy of the civil action.

The issues with the school's football program entered the national spotlight earlier this month after the student newspaper The Daily Northwestern cited several former players who spoke about hazing and racism.

A third-party review conducted this winter by a former Illinois inspector general found ongoing hazing, including "forced participation, nudity and sexualized acts of a degrading nature," university president Michael Schill said in a letter earlier this month that announced Fitzgerald's termination.

Though the investigation found no "credible evidence" Fitzgerald was aware of the alleged hazing, the head coach is ultimately responsible for the team's culture, Schill wrote. Fitzgerald has denied any knowledge of hazing in the program.

When asked Wednesday whether he would look into any involvement of staff members who have been named in lawsuits, Braun said he trusts the university "will make decisions based on the facts."