Independent Investigation Finds No NCAA Violations After Review of University of Northern Colorado’s Financial Aid Processes
March 29, 2022
An independent investigation led by a law firm specializing in collegiate athletic compliance has resulted in a determination that the University of Northern Colorado’s football team was not in violation of any NCAA bylaws regarding impermissible reductions or cancellations of athletically related financial aid.
The university contracted with Bond, Schoeneck and King this past January to begin an investigation after an article in the Greeley Tribune cited allegations from anonymous football players concerning the university’s administration of financial aid.
After a thorough examination of all relevant documentation for all football student-athletes' financial aid packages for the 2018-19 through 2021-22 academic years, no instances of NCAA violations were found. The law firm presented its findings to the NCAA and the NCAA then determined that no violations had occurred and that there was no need for further inquiry into the matter.
“We are committed to running our athletics programs with honesty and integrity and in compliance with the NCAA,” said UNC Director of Athletics, Darren Dunn. “While we have confidence that our internal processes both in Athletics and our Office of Financial Aid are in compliance with NCAA bylaws, we took the anonymous allegations seriously and did our due diligence to look into them further. I have every confidence that our coaching staff, under the leadership of head coach Ed McCaffrey, has spent the off season preparing to continue to lead our student-athletes to success on and off the field. Coach McCaffrey remains committed to our philosophy of building champions for life and I am pleased we’re able to provide closure in this matter to our student athletes, coaches, staff and entire university community. I am excited to see our players get back on the field this spring to focus on building our football program.”
University President Andy Feinstein added, “I am pleased that the investigation confirmed that the alleged NCAA violations were unfounded and remain supportive of head coach Ed McCaffrey. I have the utmost respect for Coach McCaffrey, and I am excited to see our student-athletes excel on and off the field under his leadership as the program continues to move forward.”
The Bears have open practices scheduled on April 9 and 16 at 9 a.m. and their spring game will be held at Nottingham Field on Saturday, April 23 at 11 a.m.
