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Former Washington State football coach Nick Rolovich has filed a lawsuit against the university, Washington Gov. Jay Inslee and WSU athletic director Pat Chun seeking damages related to his dismissal last year for refusing to get vaccinated against COVID-19. Rolovich had previously filed a claim against the university, which was a prerequisite for suing a state agency. The 32-page complaint -- which was filed Friday, according to Rolovich's lawyer, Brian Fahling -- contains eight counts, including breach of contract, discrimination against religion, wrongful withholding of wages and violation of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act as well as the First and 14th Amendments. Unlike the claim, which indicated Rolovich would seek $25 million, the complaint did not specify how much money he is seeking. However, it does request damages to include the loss of past and future income, liquidated damages from his employment, punitive damages and other costs related to bringing the lawsuit. WSU fired Rolovich and four assistant coaches for cause last October for failing to comply with the state's vaccine mandate. In a statement Monday, Washington State called the lawsuit against the university "without merit." "Washington State University carried out the Governor's COVID-19 vaccination proclamation for state employees in a fair and lawful manner, including in its evaluation of employee requests for medical or religious exemptions and accommodations," it said. "For multiple reasons, Mr. Rolovich did not qualify, and the university firmly stands by that decision. Washington State University will vigorously defend itself against Mr. Rolovich's claims." Requests for comment sent to Inslee's office were not immediately returned Sunday night. It is unclear whether the other coaches fired -- Ricky Logo, John Richardson, Craig Stutzmann and Mark Weber -- also plan to sue. Rolovich is currently working in a volunteer capacity with the San Marin High football team in Northern California, near where he grew up.
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