Following allegations of hazing and student-athlete conduct violations, the University of Wisconsin-Platteville has suspended the men’s cross country head coach and pressed pause on the men’s team, which competes in the NCAA Division III Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Conference.
According to WKOW, UW-Platteville chancellor Tammy Evetovich temporarily suspended all team activities and placed head coach James Akita on administrative leave on Sept. 4, three days after receiving the initial report of misconduct.
UW-Platteville is investigating the hazing allegations, and the school said it has made counseling resources available to the student-athletes involved.
"Our priority is to support students involved while ensuring this matter is investigated as thoroughly, fairly and promptly as possible," said Melanie Platt-Gibson, UW-Platteville spokesperson.
Akita has served as the head men’s and women’s cross country coach since 2023. According to The Lacrosse Tribune, in Akita’s absence, the head track and field coach, Chris Rotzenberg, and assistant coaches Armando Payan and Natalie Kreier are stepping in to coach the women’s team.
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The Pioneers’ men’s cross country team had not yet kicked off its 2026 season when Evetovich suspended the team. The women’s team did go on to compete in the first race of the year, scoring 42 points and taking first place at the Luther All-American Invite in Decorah, Iowa.
The women’s team will compete on Saturday at the St. Olaf Invite in Northfield, Minn.
In a statement shared on Facebook, the university said, “Since the allegations are under investigation, UW-Platteville can provide no additional comment. The university is committed to protecting student privacy, following applicable policies and laws and cooperating with the appropriate review process. Support and counseling resources are being offered to students involved. UW-Platteville will continue to prioritize student well-being and privacy as the investigation proceeds."
