Kentucky Assistant Track Coach Hakon DeVries Suspended Amid Investigation
The University of Kentucky has suspended assistant track and cross-country coach Hakon DeVries with pay, the school confirmed this week.
UK spokesperson Jay Blanton told local news station, FOX 56, the suspension follows reports of “inappropriate behavior,” and that the university’s Office of Equal Opportunity is conducting an internal investigation.
“The university takes very seriously reports of inappropriate behavior,” Blanton said. “Our Office of Equal Opportunity investigates thoroughly and recommends disciplinary measures depending on the findings and specifics of each case.”
DeVries, who has been with the program since 2012, has helped coach multiple All-Americans during his tenure and was a key figure in the Wildcats’ rise in both SEC and national competition. UK has not disclosed the nature of the allegations, what prompted the investigation, or the expected timeline for resolution.
The university’s silence on specifics is notable — especially given the larger context.
This marks yet another off-track controversy for Kentucky athletics, and specifically its track and field program. The university is still reeling from the high-profile scandal involving former swim coach Lars Jorgensen, whose tenure ended in legal battles and a federal lawsuit now headed for trial in 2026. That case involved repeated allegations of abuse and neglect, and it continues to raise questions about the oversight and accountability of UK’s athletic leadership including Mitch Barnhart.
While the details surrounding DeVries' suspension remain sealed, the optics are troubling. Another veteran coach. Another vague suspension. Another Title IX-related investigation. And another reminder that when it comes to internal accountability, Kentucky continues to operate behind a veil of silence — until lawsuits bring the facts to light.
For now, DeVries is suspended with pay. But whether this becomes an isolated incident or another thread in a broader pattern will depend on what comes next — both from the investigation and from university leadership.
Disclaimer: This article reports on allegations and ongoing investigations regarding a University of Kentucky assistant’s suspension for alleged inappropriate behavior, and a lawsuit brought against the University by swim team members. All information is based on publicly available sources and unverified claims. No statements herein imply guilt or wrongdoing. For updates or corrections, contact WBN.