In December 2025, the University of Michigan abruptly terminated former head football coach Sherrone Moore after a campus investigation uncovered evidence of an inappropriate relationship with a staff member. The story has since spiraled into a legal battle, a personal scandal involving an aborted pregnancy, and a broader conversation about workplace conduct in collegiate athletics.
Background and Firing
Sherrone Moore, who had led the Wolverines from 2023 to 2025, was dismissed with cause following a formal inquiry by the university’s Office of Human Resources. Athletic Director Warde Manuel issued a statement that read, “Following a University investigation, credible evidence was found that Coach Moore engaged in an inappropriate relationship with a staff member. This conduct constitutes a clear violation of University policy, and U‑M maintains zero tolerance for such behavior.” The staff member’s identity was not disclosed, but the university emphasized that the relationship violated the institution’s code of conduct.
Moore’s firing was immediate, and the university released a brief statement to the media, refusing to comment on the specifics of the alleged affair. The decision came amid a growing national scrutiny of coaching behavior and the responsibilities of athletic programs to protect their employees.
The Alleged Affair and Investigation
According to the university’s findings, Moore’s relationship with the staff member was deemed “inappropriate” due to the power differential inherent in a coach–employee dynamic. The investigation, which began after anonymous complaints were filed, involved interviews with staff, a review of communications, and an assessment of the workplace environment.
While the university did not name the staff member, later reports identified the individual as Paige Shiver, a long‑time member of the athletics department’s support staff. Shiver, who has worked at Michigan since 2018, became the center of the controversy when she confirmed the rumors in an April 2026 interview with Good Morning America. She revealed that she had become pregnant with Moore’s child but had to terminate the pregnancy due to complications from Pompe disease, a rare genetic disorder that can cause severe heart and muscle problems.
Shiver’s disclosure added a deeply personal dimension to the scandal, highlighting the potential health risks associated with the relationship and the broader implications for workplace safety.
Legal Fallout and Arrest
The situation escalated dramatically in early 2026 when Moore was arrested for allegedly breaking into Shiver’s home. Police reports indicated that Moore entered the residence, threatened to kill Shiver and himself, and was subsequently detained. He was placed in protective custody while authorities investigated the alleged assault.
Moore’s arrest brought criminal charges to the forefront of the story. While the university had already terminated his employment, the legal








