UPDATE (June 23, 2020, 11:50 PM) – WVU head football coach Neal Brown posted a statement following Tuesday’s allegations:
“Mountaineer Family, I come to you tonight sick about today’s events.
Earlier today, Kerry Martin expressed his voice and he had every right to do so. I first learned about Kerry’s stated concerns via Twitter. I care deeply about everyone involved and have waited to speak publicly so that I could first speak with Kerry, Vic, the team, and our administration…I again emphasized to our team that our program culture will be one of acceptance, respect, tolerance, and positive relationships. I stressed to our team and staff that we will be open and transparent throughout the University process.
I will refrain from further conversation or comment about these issues until the University process is complete. I ask everyone to be patient as we work through this process as quickly as possible. We will listen, learn and grow from this together, as a family, to become even more united.
Thank you,
Neal Brown”
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WOAY – WVU has announced that defensive coordinator Vic Koenning has been placed on administrative leave effective immediately.
The decision comes hours after Mountaineer safety Kerry Martin Jr. posted to Twitter about multiple comments Koenning had made on several occasions.
In the posts, Martin says, “My teammates and I have been dealing with these situations for a while, and there (have) also been occasions with him and another staff member…..I have had meetings with Coach (Neal) Brown himself about the mistreatment I have received from Coach Vic.”
Martin says these comments started during spring practices in 2019.
Athletic director Shane Lyons said in a statement, “I want to thank Kerry Martin for having the courage to bring his concerns to light. We will not tolerate any form of racism, discrimination or bias on our campus, including our athletic programs….the department will work with the appropriate parties to conduct a thorough investigation into these allegations. This is serious, and we will act appropriately and in the best interests of our student-athletes.”
Vic Koenning joined WVU as defensive coordinator under Neal Brown in 2019, having worked with Brown at Troy.
