After coaching the New Orleans Saints to victory in Super Bowl 44 back in 2010, it appears that the long way down towards rock bottom for Sean Payton hasn’t yet arrived. Just a few months after being suspended for a season due to his role in the infamous “Bountygate” scandal, Payton and his wife of nearly 20 years, Beth, are calling it quits.
Sean Payton petitioned for divorce on June 14, citing “discord or conflict of personalities,” as the cause. He wants to divide the couple’s assets and share joint custody of the couple’s two children.
However, in a move that may foreshadow an acrimonious courtroom battle, Beth Payton filed a counter petition on June 26, in which she asked the courts to award her primary custody of their children, and exclusive authority to make decisions regarding their health, education and other aspects. She also requested child support.
Despite the fact that Payton coaches in Louisiana (or at least used to, and presumably will again in 2013), the couple filed for divorce in Texas, since that’s where they moved last year – specifically, into an exclusive neighbourhood featuring an elite private school.
There’s no indication yet as to how this may affect Payton’s desire to remain in Texas. Reports suggest that he has moved out of the family house.
Prior to coaching the Saints, Payton was an assistant coach with the Dallas Cowboys, and the New York Giants. He was also quarterbacks coach with the Philadelphia Eagles. He is widely credited with designing the potent Saints offense that helped the team finish 13-3 last season and set several records.
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