Winona State coach investigated after abrupt resignation

WINONA, Minn. (KMSP) - The Winona State basketball coach who led the team to two national titles, Mike Leaf, resigned in June, and now he’s the focus of a university investigation. University leaders say they are looking into a complaint filed against the former coach, but they won't say what it is or if it's in any way related to his resignation.

In late June, Leaf walked away from the program he's been a part of for 28 years without much of an explanation, and the school didn't give a reason either.  But after a recent public records request, school leaders say they are now investigating a complaint against the former coach.

A university spokesperson is not saying who made the complaint, when it was made, or if it's related to Leaf's resignation. It's hard to question Leaf's winning ways.  He led the Winona State Warriors to two NCAA Division II national championships and is the winningest men's basketball coach in team history.

In an interview after Leaf left the program, the 54-year-old told the Winona Daily News, "I love the university. I've always tried to represent this town well. There's been some adversities along the way. But I've always tried to make them proud."

Fox 9 was unable to reach Leaf for comment. School leaders say they have never disciplined him during his coaching career.  Winona police say they have not been asked to investigate this as a separate criminal matter.