Former USC Trojans football coach Steve Sarkisian is taking his ex-employers to court for firing him unjustifiably while he dealt with alcoholism, according to reports.
“Instead of accommodating Steve Sarkisian’s disability, USC kicked him to the curb,” Sarkisian’s lawsuit, which seeks upward of $30 million, states. According to his lawsuit, the university made zero accommodations to allow him to seek help for his disease.
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"Under the circumstances of this case, California law required USC to make reasonable accommodation of giving Steve Sarkisian time off to get help for his disability and then return to his job," the lawsuit said.
It also describes a callous reaction from USC athletic director Pat Haden, who fired Sarkisian via e-mail while he was on a plane to seek help. Sarkisian, allegedly hyperventilating, told Haden he needed help immediately. Haden’s response was, “Unbelieveable! Can’t you even go back to the office to finish the day?” He flew to a rehab facility the next day, and found out he was fired upon landing.
Sarkisian's Drinking Problems Were No Surprise
This year Sarkisian had several alcohol-related incidents. The first was in August, when Sarkisian was slurring his words and cursing during a university event sponsored by boosters. Then, in September, Sarkisian was accused of being intoxicated on the sideline while coaching vs. Arizona State.
Sarkisian’s drinking worsened following an upset loss to Washington in October, per The Los Angeles Times, and decided to seek treatment on Oct. 11, when he “didn’t feel right” during a meeting. Sarkisian has reportedly completed “intensive” rehabilitation and wants to return to coaching.
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