WICHITA, Kan.—Fort Hays State University has fired its debate coach for losing his temper at a tournament, engaging in a videotaped shouting match that included pulling down his shorts to expose his underwear.

The argument between Fort Hays State debate coach William Shanahan and another coach followed a tournament match at Wichita State University in March. It received nationwide attention after it was posted on YouTube on Aug. 2.

Shanahan told The Associated Press in a telephone interview on Friday that while his reasoning might seem convoluted, he argued with the other coach because he respected her and her opinions.

“Obviously it got out of control, but to be honest I thought I was in a safe house,” Shanahan said. “I thought I was part of a community that handled its problems internally and that recognized the dangers of exposing ourselves—no pun intended—to the rest of the country.”

Shanahan, an assistant professor of communication studies, taught at the university for 10 years but did not have tenure. He led the university’s debate team to a national championship in 2002.

“Everyone has the right to freedom of speech, but these actions are not acceptable for someone who is representing our university,” Hammond said in a written statement.