PULLMAN (Wash.) – Joe Trull was disappointed Nick Rolovich didn’t get a chance at coaching a full season at Washington State.
Trull, 55, from Port Orchard, Washington said that Rolovich’s dismissal was the right thing to have done as he stood outside Martin Stadium prior to the Cougars’ match against BYU.
Washington State fans such as Trull were weighed in on Saturday, after Rolovich was fired for refusing to receive a COVID-19 vaccine.
Trull stated, “I’m curious how the children handle this.” This could be a rallying point. They are going to work hard, I believe.”
Trisha Griggs (32), Spokane, Washington is a 2011 Washington State graduate. As she walked towards the stadium, Trisha Griggs wore a Cougars sweatshirt.
Griggs stated, “It’s sad for players.” “It’s so difficult on the players, and it causes such divisions within Cougar Nation.
“But I’m an Alum and I still support Athletics.”
Mark Blewett, 51 of Spokane is a 1995 WSU graduate. He stated that he was a big fan of Rolovich who led the Cougars this season to a 4-3 record.
“He got himself fired,” Blewett said. Blewett said, “He stood on top of a hill and died there.
He is a leader among men who work for a research university. He built his bed himself.”
Blewett stated that he hopes the Cougars will continue to play at the same level as they did in their three consecutive victories and qualify for a bowl match.
Blewett stated, “Two to three more wins and they get an additional game.”
Officials from Washington State said that fans have continued to contribute money to the program.
According to the school, $3.5 million has been donated to the athletic department in the week since Rolovich’s firing. The school stated that the donations will be used to fund the construction of an indoor practice facility. This facility has already exceeded its fundraising goals.
On Saturday, a good-sized crowd was expected to attend the 32,900-seat Martin Stadium, but school officials stated that it was unlikely to sell out like Jayden de Laura had requested after Rolovich’s firing.
Rolovich and four of his associates were fired Monday after they failed to comply with the governor’s order that all state employees get vaccinated against coronavirus. Rolovich had asked for a religious exemption, but it was denied Monday by the state.
For the remainder of the season, he was replaced by Jake Dickert (defensive coordinator), who was promoted to acting head coach.
