UNL confirms Mickey Joseph is first black head coach despite social media claims

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – The University of Nebraska-Lincoln has confirmed that Mickey Joseph is the first black coach in the university’s history.

Some on social media claimed that Erynn Butzke, who directs the Nebraska Spirit Squad, was the university’s first black head coach.

Butzke was hired back in 2011 and directs the cheer squad, Scarlets Dance Team and mascot program.

Representatives of the team tell Channel 8 that there have been other black directors of the team before her.

Nebraska Athletics Communications Director Shamus McKnight said the university does not consider the spirit squad as a varsity sport.

Joseph made history Sunday when he was announced as interim football head coach following the firing of Scott Frost.

Frost was fired after a 45-42 loss to Georgia Southern on Saturday, ending his tenure with a 16-31 record.

SEE ALSO: After Tom Osborne: Comparing the last five Husker football coaches

Joseph’s first game as interim head coach will be played on Saturday against No. 6 Oklahoma.

When asked about being the university’s first black head coach on Tuesday, Joseph said he was more focused on getting the team ready for Saturday’s game.

SEE ALSO: ‘It’s bigger than me’: Mickey Joseph takes rein as Husker interim head coach