In Hoover, Alabama, two former high school football players have made headlines with a lawsuit seeking $30 million against their former coaches. The lawsuit was filed on Monday in Jefferson County Circuit Court, with the players referred to by their initials, D.G. and D.L. Their allegations claim that head coach Drew Gilmer and defensive coordinator Adam Helms engaged in abusive practices during training last summer.
According to the complaint, the Hoover Board of Education is accused of being negligent in hiring Gilmer and Helms. The situation gained significant attention after videos from a practice were leaked online, showing troubling interactions between the coaches and players. One clip notably showed a coach appearing to thrust his groin onto a player who was on the ground, sparking outrage and leading to the coaches’ administrative leave and subsequent resignation in August.
Superintendent Kevin Maddox addressed the situation, stating, “The safety and well-being of our students and staff continue to be our top priorities.” He emphasized that the school has high expectations for employees and is now focused on supporting the football players and coaching staff amid the turmoil.
The lawsuit claims that the board, along with Maddox and Hoover High School Athletic Director Jack Lamey, failed in their duties to properly hire, train, and supervise the coaches. It argues that a thorough background check would have revealed Gilmer’s history of abusive conduct toward student athletes, which has been discussed within the community and at previous schools where he worked.
As a result, the lawsuit is seeking $10 million each for claims of assault and battery, emotional distress, and negligent hiring and supervision. The implications of these allegations raise serious concerns about the safety of student athletes and the responsibilities of educational institutions in ensuring a secure environment for all.
