Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations
We're working to fix a technical issue causing problems with our broadcasts. We'll have it resolved as soon as possible. We apologize for the inconvenience.

Former coach sues University of Montana over gender discrimination

University of Montana Main Hall
Freddy Monares
/
Montana Pubic Radio
University of Montana Main Hall

A former head coach of the University of Montana women’s basketball program is suing the school over alleged gender discrimination. It’s the second gender discrimination lawsuit filed against UM in the past year.

Shannon Schweyen claims she was fired from the position based on her gender. Court documents in Missoula federal court allege that UM’s athletic director Kent Haslam evaluated Schweyen more harshly than her male counterparts.

UM spokesperson Dave Kuntz says the university rejects the allegations and will defend itself in the appropriate forum.

Schweyen is asking for a trial to reinstate her as head coach of the university’s women’s basketball program and pay her salary for the time she has missed working.

The university faces a separate gender discrimination lawsuit from a group of current and former female employees. That lawsuit is pending in federal court.

Freddy Monares was a reporter and Morning Edition host at Montana Public Radio.
Become a sustaining member for as low as $5/month
Make an annual or one-time donation to support MTPR
Pay an existing pledge or update your payment information