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Alex Ricker-Gilbert, the athletic director of Jacksonville University, issued a statement that announced that Ron Grigg is stepping down from his position as head coach of women’s cross-country and track and field staff, and of the men’s cross country team. Grigg “is no longer an employee of Jacksonville University. We believe, and Coach Grigg agrees, that this is the best path forward for our current and future student-athletes and their success.”
Ricker-Gilbert added, “Over the past few days there has been some very concerning information shared online regarding the personal experiences of some of our student-athletes while at Jacksonville University. The posts and comments have been difficult to read, and they have deeply impacted me and our Dolphin family.”
He also announced that “Jacksonville University Athletics has tasked an outside firm to immediately review the new information and allegations that have been shared in recent days about the experiences of other student athletes. We take these reports very seriously, and it is our responsibility to ensure that this information receives the time and attention that it deserves. In addition, this outside firm will perform an audit of our athletic department’s policies, reporting mechanisms, and responsive actions in an effort to strengthen and improve them. This audit will include interviews of current and former students to encourage candid feedback and will assist us with identifying and developing outstanding resources that address areas where we as a university can improve. Our goal is to create a safe and supportive environment for our student athletes and coaches to share their concerns. This audit has already commenced.”
Grigg could not be reached for comment.
The Florida Times-Union reported that allegations of bullying have been made against the coach by women who are runners. A police report from November 2021 said one of the runners died by suicide.
