Former Montana women's soccer coach sues after firing

MISSOULA, Mont. (AP) - The former University of Montana women's soccer coach is suing the university alleging it illegally released information saying he used his university-issued cellphone to contact escort services during recruiting trips to Las Vegas.

Mark Plakorus is seeking damages for defamation and breach of contract, arguing he couldn't get another college coaching job.

In January 2018 the university announced Plakorus was resigning. But in February, the school said one or more players had complained that Plakorus was texting them too much and at odd times. That investigation found the complaint lacked merit, but it revealed the phone numbers associated with escort services.

Plakorus told the Missoulian at the time that he was not married, he texted women in response to personal ads and it was his choice how he spent personal time on recruiting trips.

The university declined to comment.