Investigation into University of Michigan’s Athletic Department Uncovers Alarming Allegations
A recent investigation by Jenner & Block into the University of Michigan’s athletic department has raised serious concerns, particularly surrounding athletic director Ward Manuel. Allegations emerged regarding an inappropriate relationship between Manuel, former football coach Sherone Moore, and ex-football staff member Paige Shiver.
The findings suggest that Michigan’s response to these issues has been inadequate, leaving uncertainty about the management of the fraud claims. The Wall Street Journal covered this story on Tuesday.
It was revealed that Manuel had expressed concerns about the close relationship between Moore and Shiver just days before the 2024 college football season was set to kick off.
On August 29, 2024, Manuel noted on Michigan’s official letterhead that he couldn’t accompany Moore on an upcoming trip, although he wasn’t sure if they had discussed it previously.
The investigation further disclosed that shortly after Shiver began interning in November 2021, Moore contacted her via Instagram asking, “What’s your favorite drink?”
Their relationship reportedly began during a recruiting trip to Colorado in January 2022, and later that summer, Shiver had an abortion.
The investigation also indicated that Shiver had communicated with Moore about undergoing treatment for postpartum depression while hospitalized, mentioning that then-head coach Jim Harbaugh “helped” connect Moore with someone in a position of authority.
In a text, Shiver reassured Moore, stating, “Don’t worry. He doesn’t know everything, and he won’t know. I just know I’m not feeling well.”
Allegations regarding inappropriate conduct began to surface after Moore was named head coach and Shiver assumed the role of executive assistant.
Although the complete report hasn’t been publicly released, the emerging details continue to cast doubt on the culture within the athletic department, leaving Manuel’s position uncertain.
In a conversation with Yahoo Sports’ Ross Dellenger, Manuel asserted that he has no intention of stepping down from his role as athletic director. “The president and I have had several great conversations over the past few days, and there are no plans for me to continue as athletic director in the near future,” he stated.
