Brooke Slusser, a former volleyball player at San Jose State University (SJSU), has spoken out about concerns regarding head coach Todd Kress following allegations of past misconduct. During her final season in 2024, Slusser claims she was advised not to be alone with Kress due to rumors of his alleged past actions. She stated that her parents were informed of these rumors, which included allegations from a former player who accused Kress of assault in 1998.
In an interview, Slusser expressed her frustration that SJSU did not inform her or her teammates about the allegations. She noted that after the allegations became public, many former teammates reached out to her, indicating they were also unaware of the situation. Slusser described how her parents advised her to avoid being alone with Kress and to bring a teammate or former assistant coach to meetings with him.
Emails obtained by Fox News Digital show that SJSU officials acknowledged the allegations in October 2024 and expressed gratitude to the former player for coming forward. Despite this, Kress remained in his position as head coach, while assistant coach Melissa Batie-Smoose was suspended and later had her contract not renewed after filing a Title IX complaint.
Slusser criticized the university's decision to suspend Batie-Smoose while keeping Kress employed, stating that it was troubling to let go of someone who supported the team while retaining Kress. She is currently pursuing legal action against the university and the California State University system for her experiences during her time at SJSU.
Slusser also warned current players and recruits about Kress, stating she would not recommend him as a coach. The allegations against Kress have sparked discussions about the university's handling of the situation and the safety of its athletes. Fox News Digital has reached out to Kress and SJSU officials for comments but has not received responses.