(CN) - Eastern Illinois University's football coaches and trainers are not liable for the neurological injuries suffered by one their players during a game, an Illinois appeals court ruled.
Clinton Sellers suffered the injury in the opening game of the 2006 season. He had suffered neurological trauma in the form of "stingers" during preseason practice.
Sellers sued university employees for negligence, claiming he was encouraged to keep playing before receiving a doctor's clearance.
However, the trial court ruled that the defendants were protected by sovereign immunity.
The Springfield-based 4th District Appellate Court upheld the lower court's decision.
"We conclude plaintiff has failed to show his second-amended complaint sets forth an independent duty of care for the coaches," Justice John W. Turner wrote.
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