The Fresno State University wrestling program is under investigation for possible violations of athletics department and NCAA rules after internal reports alleged a stripper danced at a party where recruits on official visits were present last year.
The Fresno Bee reports that the incident is the subject of an independent investigation, and that it could result in sanctions and other disciplinary action for the four-year-old program.
“Fresno State athletics is aware of allegations about the wrestling program and is following all (California State University) and campus policies in conjunction with university administration, the Big 12 Conference, and the NCAA,” athletics director Terry Tumey told The Bee in a statement.
The athletics department outlines prohibited conduct during official visits in its student-athlete handbook. Among off-limits activities are:
- Use of alcohol of any kind by the host or prospect, regardless of age.
- Drug use of any kind.
- Sexual misconduct.
- Use of ‘adult entertainment’ services or facilities of any kind.
- Any activity that violates state or federal law.
- Abusive conduct which threatens or endangers the physical or psychological health, safety or welfare of any individual.
- Any other behavior that is illegal, inappropriate or results in embarrassment to Fresno State, its athletic programs, its student-athletes or its prospective student-athletes.
If coaches are found to have known about any violations of rules or policies and failed to report them, those coaches could be subject to disciplinary action such as suspensions or termination.
The investigation into the wrestling program is ongoing.
