University of Idaho volleyball coach placed on leave as part of bullying investigation

MOSCOW, IDAHO - University of Idaho officials confirmed Wednesday that the university has placed embattled volleyball coach Chris Gonzalez on administrative leave.

The university began investigating Gonzalez last fall, as players came forward with allegations of abuse and bullying.

Allegations were reported in-depth by the OC Register, which recently reported allegations that "I daho volleyball head coach Chris Gonzalez routinely pressured Vandals players who had not been cleared to play or practice by the school’s sports medicine staff to participate in matches, withheld pre-ordered food from players after losses, physically pushed players during practices, bullied and body shamed athletes.

U of I confirmed to 4 News Now in January that Gonzalez was being investigated.

Wednesday, a university spokesperson confirmed his leave status, saying " We expect this investigation to be finalized in the coming weeks and President Green will determine what steps will be taken to resolve this issue."

" We will continue to provide resources and support to our student-athletes throughout the conclusion of this process as well as after," the statement continued.

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