The University of West Georgia has identified an NCAA compliance violation involving a football student-athlete. Upon discovering the issue, the university contacted the NCAA and the United Athletic Conference and are working collaboratively to evaluate the situation and determine appropriate next steps.
As an immediate, self-imposed corrective measure, Head Coach Steve Englehart will not participate in tonight's football contest while the review continues. The university has also initiated an independent, external review of its athletics compliance processes and implemented additional controls.
At this time, UWG has found no evidence that any member of Athletics staff knowingly attempted to circumvent NCAA bylaws.
"When we identified the issue, we didn't make excuses. We took responsibility," said Dr. Michael Johnson, UWG's president. "We are working with the NCAA and our conference, and we will be open and transparent about what happened and fix what needs to be fixed. That is what accountability requires, and it is what our students, our university and our community should expect from us."
"In working through this matter, Coach Englehart has consistently demonstrated professionalism, transparency and a commitment to doing what is in the best interest of our student-athletes and the university," said Jason Carmichael, director of athletics. "He has my full respect, and I have the utmost confidence in his leadership of our football program."
"In my 20 years as a head coach, I have always believed in doing the things the right way and competing fairly without stretching the rules. Unfortunately, this administrative error happened on my watch, and I have to take full responsibility," said head coach Steve Englehart. "Our team is prepared for tonight's game. This is an opportunity for leaders within our team and staff to show leadership in my absence. I believe in the long run that positives will come from this unfortunate situation."
Associate head coach and offensive coordinator Jayson Martin will assume interim head coach duties.
Because the review remains ongoing, the university will not comment further until additional information becomes available.
