High Point (N.C.) University failed to notify in writing more than 100 student-athletes about changes to their scholarships, which constituted a violation of NCAA regulations.
According to an NCAA release, the school also failed to notify those student-athletes about their right to a hearing regarding those changes, which constituted reductions and cancellations.
The release says that the violations were self-detected and self-reported by High Point. They apparently were the result of changes in compliance staff, which in turn dropped the ball when it came to notifying the financial aid office of their obligation to inform student-athletes of any scholarship reductions or cancellations.
The school and the governing body agreed to a negotiated resolution process — wherein NCAA enforcement staff and High Point officials agreed on the level of violations and classification of penalties. The negotiated resolution may not be appealed.
The agreed upon penalties, based on the Level II-standard penalty guidelines, include two years of probation and a $15,000 fine.
The case should serve as a reminder to administrators to keep staff informed of their responsibilities, and to ensure to adhere to policies and procedures when it comes to scholarship changes.
