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Patterson, WIU Reach Settlement

http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wium/local-wium-916399.mp3

Macomb, IL – Former Western Illinois University head football coach Don Patterson says he and his lawyers have reached a resolution with the university.

A press release from WIU Athletics last September stated Patterson elected to step down due to health reasons. Patterson responded, saying that was completely false. He says the release was filled with fabricated quotes and misinformation.

Patterson was diagnosed with tonsillar cancer in July 2008. But he says he was in Iowa City a few days earlier for a routine checkup, during which his doctors gave him a clean bill of health. He says the WIU Athletics department's press release made it seem as though he was too ill to coach.

Patterson says he's had no recurrence of cancer for nearly two years.

An investigation by the university's Office of Equal Opportunity and Access found Patterson had, in fact, been discriminated against.

Patterson and his lawyers say they can't disclose the details of the resolution. He says he'd ideally like to coach again, perhaps as an offensive coordinator instead of a head coach.

Patterson's statement to the media:

"I am pleased to announce that Western Illinois University and I have reached a resolution regarding the termination of my employment as Head Football Coach. While I cannot comment on the nature of this resolution, I can state that the matter is resolved to the satisfaction of both parties."

"The University's Office of Equal Opportunity and Access conducted an internal investigation and concluded that I was the victim of discrimination. I wish to thank the University for allowing the impartial investigation to occur. This is an example of the system working the way it should."

"I want everyone to know that I have had no recurrence of cancer and that I am in excellent health. I still have a strong desire to coach college football, and I will continue to pursue opportunities that allow me to return to the game that I love."

"I have fond memories of leading the Leathernecks and I wish all the best for the young men that I have been so privileged to coach. While I will always regret that my career at Western Illinois University was abruptly terminated, I wish the institution, President Goldfarb, the Board of Trustees and the student-athletes nothing but the best. It has been our privilege to be part of the Macomb and University communities now for more than a decade, and Lisa and I will be forever grateful for the support that we have received from family, friends, former players and loyal alumni."

WIU Attorney Heidi Benson
"The issue has been resolved to the satisfaction of both parties. We appreciate the work that Don Patterson has done for Western Illinois University."