Kansas State University announces internal sanctions
Tuesday, Sept. 8, 2015
MANHATTAN — Following notification from the Big 12 Conference of potential violations of its sportsmanship and ethical conduct policies, Kansas State University has agreed to sanctions with the conference office. The potential violations occurred during the first home football game Sept. 5 against South Dakota with the band's halftime depiction of a mascot from a team other than the day's opponent.
"At Saturday's home football opener Kansas State University fell short of its obligation to conduct itself in a consistent manner with the principles of sportsmanship," said President Kirk Schulz. "Good sportsmanship is part of the Wildcat way; we do not want to do anything that takes away from the tremendous efforts of our student athletes and the award-winning Pride of Wildcat Land marching band."
After Saturday's game, the administration formally apologized to the chancellor and athletic director at the University of Kansas, which was the mascot depicted by the band. K-State students previously signed a sportsmanship pledge as a way to increase awareness of good sportsmanship. The sanctions implemented by President Schulz demonstrate the university's commitment to provide additional leadership in this area:
• A self-imposed $5,000 fine to be paid to the Big 12 Conference for violation of the league sportsmanship policy. The money will come from the Office of the President.
• A single-game suspension for the university director of bands. The suspension will take place Nov. 28 at the game against the University of Kansas.
• Prior approval for the content of all band halftime shows by representatives from the Office of Student Life and the Athletic Department.
"We look forward to our upcoming athletic contests with the expectation of sportsmanlike conduct from the entire K-State family," Schulz said.
For more information, go to k-state.edu/update.
