A 68‑year‑old former Indiana University basketball trainer has filed a lawsuit accusing the university of wrongful termination and age discrimination.
Tim Garl, who spent 44 years in the university’s athletic department, was dismissed in March 2025 after a contentious dispute with incoming head coach Darian DeVries over the future of his position.
The complaint alleges that Indiana University sought to replace Garl with a younger, less experienced trainer, a move that, according to the plaintiff, violates the Age Discrimination in Employment Act and the Fourteenth Amendment.
University officials cited performance concerns, including alleged deficiencies in documentation of medical care and an inappropriate altercation with a medical staff member, as grounds for his termination.
Voices of Support
In letters made public, former IU coach Mike Woodson praised Garl’s “superior performance evaluations” and said his presence had a positive influence on the basketball team and the broader athletic department.
Tom Izzo, the longtime Michigan State coach, wrote that he had repeatedly sought Garl’s professional opinion over the years and held his expertise in high regard.
Former players such as James Blackmon and Trey Galloway also contributed endorsements, underscoring Garl’s lasting impact on the program.
Garl is seeking reinstatement, attorney fees and monetary damages, and he argues that the university should cover his legal costs in light of a separate lawsuit involving former players and team physician Brad Bomba Sr.
In a written response, Indiana University acknowledged that Garl acted within the scope of his employment but declined to pay all of the incurred costs and fees.