Sun Jan 11 19:10:00 UTC 2026: ### Headline: Notre Dame Denies Battery Allegations Against Head Football Coach Marcus Freeman

The Story:
Notre Dame Athletics has issued a statement denying that head football coach Marcus Freeman made physical contact with a New Prairie High School wrestling coach, Chris Fleeger, following a wrestling match involving Freeman’s son, Vinny Freeman, on January 3, 2026, at Mishawaka High School. A police report was filed against Freeman alleging battery. The university contends that video evidence will exonerate Freeman, stating that he and his wife, Joanna, intervened to remove Vinny from a verbal confrontation initiated by Fleeger but did not engage in any physical altercation. The Mishawaka Police Department has completed its investigation and forwarded the report to the prosecutor’s office for a charging decision.

Key Points:

  • A police report has been filed against Notre Dame head football coach Marcus Freeman for alleged battery.
  • The alleged incident occurred on January 3, 2026, at the Al Smith Wrestling Invitational at Mishawaka High School.
  • The accuser is Chris Fleeger, a New Prairie High School wrestling assistant coach.
  • Notre Dame Athletics denies any physical contact between Freeman and Fleeger.
  • The university claims video evidence will exonerate Freeman.
  • The incident allegedly occurred after Vinny Freeman’s wrestling match against Israel Sinnott.
  • The case is now with the prosecutor’s office for a charging decision.
  • Joanna Freeman, Marcus’s wife, was allegedly involved in a shouting match with Fleeger.

Key Takeaways:

  • Allegations of misconduct against a high-profile figure like Marcus Freeman can quickly escalate into a public relations crisis.
  • The presence of video evidence will likely play a crucial role in determining the outcome of the investigation.
  • The incident highlights the intense emotions that can sometimes surround youth sports competitions.
  • The speed with which Notre Dame responded to the allegations suggests they recognize the need to proactively manage the situation.

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