May 12--Illinois football coach Tim Beckman said Tuesday he was disappointment in the manner that a former team offensive lineman has voiced his complaints about the coach.
Former Illini lineman Simon Cvijanovic has levied allegations since Sunday evening of abuse and mistreatment of injuries by Beckman and his staff.
"I am disappointed that a former Fighting Illini player has chosen this path to air his concerns," Beckman said in a statement. "I have been overwhelmed by the support shown by the student-athletes and the parents who are currently in our program, along with many former players. It is truly humbling. We'll continue to treat the players in our program, current and former, like family as we continue to move forward."
Athletic director Mike Thomas said on Monday that he supported Beckman but would review the claims made by Cvijanovic.
Cvijanovic said he was pressured to practice and play while injured and he was misled about the extent of medical treatments he received from team doctors and trainers.
He has said he is considering legal action.
sryan@tribpub.com
