PULLMAN (Wash.) -- Nick Rolovich has been fired as Washington State's football coach. He refused to be vaccinated against COVID-19, a mandatory requirement for all state employees. ESPN confirmed this to ESPN Monday.
The source also stated that several unvaccinated assistant coaches were out. As interim coach, Jake Dickert, defensive coordinator, is expected.
Monday was the deadline to receive a medical exemption or become fully vaccinated for state employees. This was in accordance with a mandate announced by August. Rolovich sought a religious exemption. However, it is unclear how the university committee that was responsible for evaluating religious exemptions decided.
Washington State has not given any examples of what qualifies for a religious exemption. Rolovich would have had to attest that his "sincerely held religious belief" was in conflict with the vaccine requirements as part of the application process. The process is blind, which means that the committee wouldn't have any access to any identifiable information as it makes its decision. This process was designed to be fair to all employees. Every application must be reviewed by at least two persons who have been trained in the legality and use of religious exemptions.
COVID-19 vaccines are supported by all major religions. However, this does not affect what is sincerely believed.
Rolovich was repeatedly asked to elaborate on his reasoning, but he declined to do so.
Rolovich stated Saturday that it had been three, four months since the Cougars (3-2) beat Stanford 34-31 to extend their winning streak of three games. "So, I've gotten used it. These children are amazing. They are so much fun to be around. They are putting their all into this university. They have a great bond that they will remember for the rest their lives. It's quite special."
Rolovich was hired as head coach at Hawaii in January 2020. He had previously held that position for four years and had a 28-27 record.
The Oregonian first reported his departure.
