Burlington, VT – One day after the University of Vermont fired its men’s hockey coach, we’re learning more about the investigation that led to Todd Woodcroft’s firing.

The decision to fire Woodcroft came following an investigation into inappropriate texts sent between the head coach and a student which violated the Department’s conduct policy.

In a news conference Wednesday, UVM Director of Athletics Jeff Schulman said the initial complaint was made to the athletic department on March 16.

The complaint was turned over immediately to UVM’s Office of Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity. The investigation was launched before the end of March.

UVM says it asked Woodcroft  to work from home until it was completed. Schulman says he was given the investigation’s report on Monday and Woodcroft was fired Tuesday.

The University did not elaborate on the specifics of the messages or provide any details on the student who received them.

Assistant Coach Steve Wiedler was named interim head coach for the upcoming season.

Woodcroft was the fifth head coach in UVM history, hired in April 2020. In three seasons with the Catamounts, he compiled a record of 20 wins, 55 losses and 9 ties. Prior to coming to UVM, he was Assistant Coach with the Winnipeg Jets.

In a statement, Woodcroft’s attorney Andrew Miltenberg said: “We vehemently disagree with the process and the findings of a proceeding that lacked fundamental fairness and due process. We strongly believe the University’s decision was contrary to the facts and the law. We intend to pursue justice for Mr. Woodcroft, who has been an outstanding coach and community advocate for over two decades.”

This story has updated with comments from Woodcroft’s attorney.