Texas Longhorns head coach Charlie Strong has found himself in the midst of a divorce case involving a Louisville Cardinals trustee. Strong has been asked to testify in the divorce and custody case between Jonathan and Tracy Blue. Jonathan Blue is on the board of trustees at Louisville, and claims Strong is a "critical witness" in the case. The divorce case could also give Texas a way to fire Strong "for cause," allowing them to avoid buying out Strong's contract, according to the Dallas Morning News.
There's a chance Strong won't have to testify for years, as the case could drag on. However, the divorce issues could give Texas a way to fire Strong "for cause." Strong has a morals clause in his contract that Texas could use to can him without paying the rest of his contract.
Jonathan Blue and his lawyer want Strong to produce clothing, jewelry and other gifts provided by Tracy Blue. In addition, Jonathan Blue has asked a Kentucky judge to force Strong to hand over his cell phone, text and travel records from 2012 to now. All of this is designed for Jonathan Blue to prove that Tracy Blue's "repeated behavior and activities that are inconsistent with being a role model and responsible caretaker" for their two teenage daughters.
Strong released a statement on the matter Sunday, per the Austin-American Statesman.
"I was recently given information regarding a marital dispute between a couple I know in Louisville," Strong said. "I’m not a party to their divorce and have received no court order in this case. I certainly respect the legal system, and if I do receive a court order, I will review it and respond then. Since this is a legal case, it wouldn’t be appropriate for me to say anything further at this time. I do want Longhorn fans and supporters to know that this will not affect my focus in any way. My number one priority is getting this team ready to compete at the highest level. We are doing that now and will continue to do so."
Texas has given no indication that they will fire Strong "for cause," but it's now an option that might be on the table.
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