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Date: | Fri, 21 Oct 2005 07:39:19 -0400 |
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>>> <[log in to unmask]> 10/20/05 9:12 PM >>>
NCAA Rejects Bradley Nickname Appeal
.c The Associated Press
PEORIA, Ill. (AP) - The NCAA has rejected Bradley University's bid to be
taken off a list of colleges whose American Indian nicknames, mascots and logos
will be banned in postseason play starting next year.
An NCAA staff review committee ruled Thursday that the Braves nickname
creates an environment where fans, opponents and others can exhibit behavior hostile
and abusive to Native Americans.
``By continuing to use Native American references in nicknames, institutions
assume responsibility over an environment they can not fully control,'' the
committee's written ruling said.
The committee commended Bradley for dropping its American Indian mascot and
logos about a decade ago. But it also said Bradley could have sent a clear
signal of respect for American Indians by also dropping its nearly 70-year-old
nickname.
Bradley released a two-sentence statement saying the private college ``now is
considering its options, which could include an appeal to the Executive
Committee of the NCAA.'' University officials declined further comment.
Bradley has argued the nickname now symbolizes attributes such as courage and
honor. The school also said the NCAA was inconsistent when it applied the
ban, allowing eight schools to use the nickname Warriors because they have
dropped mascots and logos, like Bradley.
The 6,100-student school was among 18 schools banned in August from using
American Indian nicknames, mascots and logos in postseason play, beginning next
year. The schools also are barred from hosting postseason events.
The Florida State Seminoles, Central Michigan Chippewas and Utah Utes were
exempted because of support from local American Indian tribes. An appeal by the
North Dakota Fighting Sioux was rejected because it did not have the backing
of Sioux tribes in the state. Illinois is awaiting a decision on its bid to be
removed from the list.
10/20/05 20:22 EDT
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