Tuesday morning Albany State University announced that the NCAA had removed the school’s athletic probation from probation status.
As reported by WALB, back in 2016 Albany State began an internal audit of its athletic program. Following that the University self-reported potential issues to the geniuses at the NCAA.
A subsequent ASU/NCAA joint investigation revealed violations for these nine sports:
- Mens: cross country, football, golf, baseball, basketball
- Women’s: volleyball, track& field, basketball, softball
In addition to several operational changes and the two year probation for the athletic program the NCAA handed down these penalties and corrective actions:
- a $3,000 fine
- Vacating of wins and ties in which ineligible athlete-students participated in from the initiation of their ineligibility until the time of their reinstatement.
- Vacating individual records of ineligible athletes while they competed when they were ineligible
ASU Athletic Director Anthony Duckworth had this to say:
We have worked consistently towards this goal with support from ASU administration, coaches, staff, and student leaders. ASU is dedicated to maintaining the full rights and privileges of our NCAA membership.”
Golden Rams Athletics has worked diligently in creating a culture of compliance inside and outside of their department. Their commitment and implementation of proper practices to regain full rights, privileges, and membership from the NCAA have been outstanding.”
Albany State University President, Marion Ross Federick
Considering the Golden Rams athletic department is coming off a season that saw the women’s cross-country team that finished second in the SIAC, women’s volleyball that won the conference eastern division for a third consecutive campaign and a SIAC championship and hosting a NCAA playoff game for the football team.
