Temple University Athletics
President Hart's Statement Regarding NCAA Report On Temple
5.10.07 | General
May 10, 2007
PHILADELPHIA - Earlier today, the NCAA announced that Temple athletics will be on probation for two years with additional reporting requirements during that period. Temple's teams will remain eligible for post-season competition, except for men's tennis in 2007-08.
This report results from investigations into two self- reported incidents in which Temple discovered that it fell short in meeting its compliance responsibilities. We concur with and will abide by the NCAA determination.
Athletic competition is an integral part of higher education and Temple is proud of the opportunities we offer through 24 varsity sports. We also are proud of our long-standing reputation for playing within the rules and developing our student-athletes into well-rounded, educated, and responsible adults.
The incidents involved a fraud perpetrated by Temple's head men's tennis coach in spring 2005, when he placed an ineligible student-athlete in competition in nine off-campus matches, and the improper use of financial aid for book purchases by 36 student-athletes during the 2004-05 and 2005-06 academic years.
We responded by immediately firing the men's tennis coach for violating University policies, we cooperated fully with the NCAA regarding these violations, and we imposed appropriate penalties and took other corrective action. We reviewed our compliance program and undertook appropriate and comprehensive remedial actions, and we completely reorganized and strengthened the eligibility certification and academic advising functions.
Adhering to NCAA rules is essential. Everyone involved in Temple athletics will be vigilant in maintaining our compliance in the future and in holding our athletics program to the highest standards.
Ann Weaver Hart
President
