The female was 14 years old when the relationship started.
Sentencing guidelines called for Fritz to spend at least seven years in prison, but he got more than that.
Fritz stood before Tuscola County Circuit Court Judge Patrick Joslyn apologizing for his actions, but asking the judge for leniency when handing down the prison sentence. "Yes, there was a big age difference, but it was never just about sex and not something that was criminal. We were in love. I ask that the court give me a second chance to prove I am not a menace to society, and allow me to stay close to the ones I love and can't live without."
But Joslyn said a coach needs to be trusted when overseeing student athletes. "Mr. Fritz took advantage of his role in that capacity," he said.
And with that, he sentenced Fritz to the maximum allowable under the sentencing guidelines, 10-15 years in prison.
"I have an innocent man who was wrongly convicted and sentenced to a long prison term," said Fritz's attorney Kevin Reiman.
Reiman was surprised at the length of the sentence and will ask for a new trial. "We are asking Judge Joslyn to consider some things that happened and make a decision that Mr. Fritz didn't get a fair trial."
Prosecutor Mark Reene says the trial and the sentence were both fair. "As far as we're concerned, it is the one that is the prime example of why this statute exists. Look at all the harm has flowed from day one of this, the impact that it had on other teammates, as the court alluded to, the baby."
Investigators believe the relationship between Fritz and the victim, who is now 19, produced a baby. The remains of that baby are believed to be buried near Gagetown, not far from the girl's home. Investigators have not found any remains.
