James Franklin, ex-Penn State doctor had strained relationship, per testimony in wrongful termination trial

Dr. Scott Lynch, a former orthopedic consultant and director of medicine for Penn State athletics, testified in front of Dauphin County Court over the weekend about a fractious relationship with Nittany Lions coach James Franklin that worsened from 2018-19, according to PennLive. Lynch is suing Dr. Kevin Black, who served as his supervisor at Penn State, and Penn State Health, though Franklin’s role has taken center stage during the trial’s proceedings. 

Lynch, who alleges that his termination followed a refusal to “allow a coach to interfere with his medical treatment and return to play decisions,” is one of two doctors to speak out against Franklin and his attempts to interfere with team medical experts. Dr. Pete Seidenberg, the primary care doctor for Penn State’s football team in 2014, claimed during the wrongful termination trial against the school that he was pushed by Franklin and athletic director Sandy Barbour to medically disqualify a player who attempted suicide in order to free up a scholarship.

Lynch’s testimony, which includes emails that he sent to Franklin expressing both his disapproval of the attempted interference and a desire to reconcile, sheds more light on Franklin’s role in the process. PennLive notes that Lynch went so far as to report Franklin’s interference to Penn State athletics and Penn State Health under Dr. Black. 

“Punishment” for missing treatment 

According to PennLive, a rash of players failed to show up for scheduled medical treatments in 2018. The problem became so severe that Franklin ruled players who didn’t show up for their appointments to be treated as full-go at practices. 

Lynch sent an email to Franklin that railed against what he called “punishment” and instead suggested that players…

Source link : https://www.cbssports.com/college-football/news/james-franklin-ex-penn-state-doctor-had-strained-relationship-per-testimony-in-wrongful-termination-trial/

Author : Will Backus

Publish date : 2024-05-27 18:21:38

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