The NCAA cited Connecticut’s athletics programs for 17 minor violations, including one for men’s basketball related to an employee giving an injured Husky a ride, according to the Associated Press. A Connecticut trainer “arranged for an injured player to ride to a hotel with a UConn employee, instead of finding his own ride,” according to the AP report.
The NCAA rules clearly have good intentions and attempt to thwart unscrupulous individuals from trying to wield influence on talented players. However, it would be shameful for the NCAA to punish the program for the well-meaning, humanitarian actions of team employee.
Often understandably, the NCAA must firmly police athletic sports by the book to apply rules fairly and consistently. The organization also has a responsibility to issue punishment that fits the crime. In this case, the NCAA would do well to let this violation slide because the alternative would be detrimental to all collegiate sports. Team trainers should look to protect and improve the health of student-athletes, and the NCAA needs to reconsider the application of any rules that limit trainers’ ability to fulfill that duty.
Do you agree that the NCAA would be setting a poor precedent if they punish Connecticut for this violation? Or is it acceptable to enact a minor punishment whenever a team violates a rule, regardless of intentions? Post a comment to let us know what you think.
