NIC: A perilous precedent

It appears the investigation and termination of Pat Whitcomb, Head Wrestling Coach at North Idaho College, has uncovered more questions than answers. Why in this critical stage of the wrestling season would NIC dismiss the head coach? The decision to terminate Mr. Whitcomb mid-season has caused undue chaos to the wrestling program, and these young men have lost an outstanding coach and leader.

NIC has now set a precedent by having an independent investigation done on the issue of academic integrity. Will there also be an independent investigation into the school’s gym that doesn’t comply with ADA regulations; and has an independent investigation been done regarding the assault of the female instructor?

Apparently, the ADA and assault issues have not gone beyond the school’s administration. So why do they need to outsource their investigation of the athletic department?

It appears “innocent until proven guilty” doesn’t apply to the athletic department. It is as though they wanted Mr. Whitcomb gone because he was brave enough to stand up for what is right when others wouldn’t. Mr. Whitcomb, along with his fellow coaches and the wrestlers at NIC, have demonstrated their commitment to our community time and time again, and now it’s our time to show our support for Mr. Whitcomb, the wrestlers and the wrestling program. I urge you to keep asking questions until NIC follows their own precedent.

LAURA RENCHER

Coeur d’Alene