North Dakota State University campus police are investigating an assault involving members of the NDSU women's softball team. The university police and safety office director confirmed there is an active investigation.
Head softball coach Darren Mueller announced Friday morning that sanctions, including game suspensions, are being levied.
The sanctions are a result of violations of team rules and athletic department policies at a team party and a separate altercation on November 30 and December 1. The suspensions will range from three to up to 10 games.
"I am extremely disappointed in the actions of our athletes," Mueller said. "We pride ourselves on a disciplined program and their behavior does not represent the standards and expectations that have been set. We will work with the athletic department and university personnel to further educate our athletes in making better decisions."
Mueller added that he has never had to deal with anything to this extent as a coach before.
As for what is next for the head coach and his players, he said, "Right now, I'm just trying to get in contact with everybody, let them know what is going on. Then as we get back, we will start moving forward, but start dealing with it more as we come back next semester."
During the investigation, as an additional sanction, no team activities are permitted. Additional team sanctions may be imposed later. Student athletes also are subject to the university code of conduct process, which is being administered by the Division of Student Affairs.
A police report has been sent to the Cass County State's Attorney's office for possible charges. Due to the ongoing investigation and federal student privacy laws, specific information cannot be provided.
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