Charlie Strong releases statement on Louisville divorce case
By Hayden Hyde
Charlie Strong’s involvement in a Louisville trustee’s divorce could be one of the most scandalous stories this offseason.
Texas Longhorns head coach Charlie Strong faces some negative press after nothing but positive news for the University of Texas on National Signing Day.
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The Courier-Journal’s Andrew Wolfson reported a motion had been filed on February 19, 2016, for Strong to testify and provide records in Jonathan and Tracy Blue’s divorce case. Wolfson writes the plea asks for duplicates of Strong’s email, texts, travel records and receipts from 2012 to now.
Jonathan Blue is a member of the University of Louisville’s board of trustees, and he’s served since June of 2006. Blue wants to depose or examine Strong under oath, which won’t be required unless the judge grants it. A ruling will most likely be made on February 26th.
Sports Illustrated’s Michael McCann does a great job of outlining and breaking down the legal case here.
Strong hasn’t commented on his relationship with Tracy Blue, but he did issue a statement, via SI.
“I was recently given information regarding a marital dispute between a couple I know in Louisville. I’m not a party to their divorce and have received no court order in this case. I certainly respect the legal system, and if I do receive a court order, I will review it and respond then. Since this is a legal case, it wouldn’t be appropriate for me to say anything further at this time. I do want Longhorn fans and supporters to know that this will not affect my focus in any way. My number one priority is getting this team ready to compete at the highest level. We are doing that now and will continue to do so.”
In addition to Strong’s statement, Texas athletic director Mike Perrin also issued one.
“I’ve spoken with Charlie about the recent media reports and he will keep me apprised of this situation,” Perrin said. “I am confident Charlie will remain focused on the Longhorns moving forward. He is doing an outstanding job as our head coach and I continue to support those efforts as he prepares for the 2016 season.”
Both Strong and Perrin try to emphasize this won’t affect the football team moving forward.
The Longhorns haven’t experienced much on-field success since Strong has taken over as head coach, but they have in recruiting–which is where this could impact them most.
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College football recruiting is a dirty business, and I guarantee this will be used against Texas by every head coach competing against them regardless of truth.
This story will develop more over the next few days, and could get ugly by the looks of it.