Fort Lewis College Coach Resigns Amid Bullying, Slur Allegations
UPDATE: Bob Pietrack, head coach of the Fort Lewis College men’s basketball team, has resigned following serious allegations of bullying and the use of slurs. The shocking development, which comes just weeks after a formal complaint was lodged, has sent shockwaves through the college athletic community.
On April 2, 2024, the athletic department received a detailed letter from former assistant coach Daniel Steffensen, accusing Pietrack of using crude, derogatory language and engaging in threatening behavior. The letter prompted an internal investigation that concluded with Pietrack’s resignation less than a month later.
The allegations detail frequent use of racial, homophobic, and sexist slurs, with reports from colleagues and former players suggesting that Pietrack often referred to Black athletes using the “N-word” and other derogatory terms. According to internal interviews, he described a Black student athlete using the “N-word” and employed variations like “Ninga” in casual conversations.
“He used to call us African American players ‘ninjas’ all the time,” said one unnamed former player, highlighting the deeply troubling nature of Pietrack’s comments.
Steffensen’s letter, which outlined a pattern of abusive conduct, described how Pietrack’s behavior created a toxic environment within the team. Colleagues reported that they would consider leaving if Pietrack returned as coach, indicating the widespread concern over his leadership style.
In addition to the slur allegations, Pietrack faced accusations of academic misconduct. According to Steffensen, he manipulated player schedules to keep them from graduating on time, thereby jeopardizing their eligibility to transfer to other programs. One notable case involved star player Akuel Kot, who was allegedly trapped in an unsustainable academic situation due to Pietrack’s actions.
Despite his initial success at Fort Lewis, including achieving 100 wins faster than any other coach in the college’s history, Pietrack’s tenure unraveled amid these serious allegations. His resignation was described as a necessary step to protect the integrity of the athletic program.
After leaving Fort Lewis, Pietrack briefly took a coaching position at Ferris State University in Michigan, but resigned again on September 26, 2024, citing “a serious personal health issue” and a desire to return to Colorado.
Fort Lewis College released a statement affirming its commitment to maintaining a safe and respectful environment. However, the college has not disclosed whether it investigated the allegations of academic misconduct or what measures it has implemented to prevent similar behaviors in the future.
Steffensen admitted to participating in the toxic culture during his time at Fort Lewis but ultimately felt compelled to report Pietrack’s behavior after resigning. His regret for not acting sooner weighs heavily on him as he reflects on the impact of Pietrack’s actions on the players and staff.
The unfolding situation has raised critical questions about accountability within collegiate athletics and the importance of fostering an inclusive and respectful environment for all athletes. As the fallout continues, the Fort Lewis community is left to grapple with the implications of these serious allegations.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
