Washington State Cougars head football coach Nick Rolovich announced earlier this summer that he would not be getting the COVID-19 vaccine.
Rolovich was not allowed to participate in Pac-12 Media Days as a result.
“As the Pac-12 Conference has required that all in-person participants at next week’s Pac-12 Football Media Day be fully vaccinated, I will participate remotely and look forward to talking about our football team and the incredible young men in our program,” Rolovich wrote. “I have elected not to receive the COVID-19 vaccine for reasons will will remain private. While I have made my own decision, I respect that every individual–including our coaches, staff and student-athletes–can make his or her own decision regarding the COVID-19 vaccine. I will not comment further on my decision.”
Now, a new Washington state mandate could force Rolovich to either get vaccinated or lose his job.
Washington Gov. Jay Inslee announces COVID-19 vaccination requirements for workers at schools, colleges and universities. Inslee’s office says mandate will apply to WSU football coach Nick Rolovich, who has declined vaccine so far. #wsu
— Chris Grygiel (@ChrisGrygiel) August 18, 2021
Krem2 News in Washington had more:
The requirement does not include a personal exemption, which many believe was what Nick Rolovich was citing privately to get out of taking the vaccine that was already required by WSU for students, faculty, and staff.
There is a possibility still to get medical or religious exemptions from the state, but it is widely believed that Rolovich does not qualify for either exemption.
Rolovich, 42, is heading into his second season as Washington State’s head coach.
The Cougars open the 2021 season on Sept. 4 against Utah State.
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