The National Association of Intercollegiate Athletes has suspended the Huntington (Ind.) University cross-country teams from post-season competition for the 2024 NAIA National Championships.
As reported by WANE in Fort Wane, the NAIA also placed Huntington University under probation through the 2026-2027 academic year. It states the probation does not deny postseason participation. The NAIA stated the probation was due to violations of the NAIA Code of Ethics. It did not get into specifics of what exactly violated the code.
This suspension is the latest incident related to Huntington University athletics. In September, a jury found ex-Huntington University running coach Nicholas E. Johnson guilty of sexual battery.
In addition, Huntington University athletic director Lori Culler received personal probation through the 2024-25 academic year due to violations of the NAIA Code of Ethics. It does not state if this will restrict Culler’s role at Huntington University until the probation period is over.
The women’s cross country team has made 11 NAIA National Tournament appearances since 1991. Last year’s season was their highest-placing appearance (6th). The men’s cross-country has made 10 NAIA National Tournament appearances since 1998. Both teams have made appearances in the tournament every year since 2020.
Huntington University sent the following statement to WANE:
This week, Huntington University received notification from the NAIA that its athletic program will be placed on probation for three years ending with the conclusion of the 2026-2027 school year. In addition, the University’s athletic director will also be part of the probationary process for one year (2024-2025). Huntington University will abide by the NAIA’s ruling.
The University’s athletic teams will remain eligible to participate in regular and postseason competitions, with the exception of the men’s and women’s cross country teams, who will not be eligible to advance in national postseason competition in the current year (2024). The men’s and women’s cross country teams will continue to participate in regular-season competitions and will be eligible to compete in this year’s conference postseason meet.
The NAIA’s decision is the result of a process between its representatives and the University concerning allegations against a former cross country coach whose employment ended in 2020. Throughout this time, Huntington University has been a collaborative partner in the NAIA’s efforts to protect student-athletes. We appreciate and value our longstanding partnership with the NAIA and its acknowledgment of our efforts to continue to have a positive impact on our students.
The NAIA’s investigation into this matter is complete and final. Accordingly, Huntington University will not be issuing public statements on this decision or the individuals involved.
As we look toward the future, we pledge to continue to make this focus on our students our highest priority and to maintain our commitment to carrying out the mission of Christ in higher education.
