Western Kentucky suspends swimming and diving program

Western Kentucky University announced today it is suspending the swimming and diving program for five years after an investigation discovered multiple Title IX violations.

A report obtained earlier this month by the College Heights Herald found that swim team members were subjected to hazing and sexual harassment, including “taping and replaying embarrassing or compromising activity in order to subject the individual to ridicule.”

The College Heights Herald obtained police reports that shed some light on the nature of the hazing. That article can be read here.

The swimming and diving program has more than 50 members. Coaches and athletes were notified today, according to the university. Three coaching positions, including head coach Bruce Marchionda, will be eliminated June 30.

From the university’s news release:

“This is a very difficult and unfortunate decision on many levels,” said Director of Athletics Todd Stewart. “While many in the program have represented WKU with distinction, the overall findings of a consistent pattern of disappointing conduct is troubling and not acceptable at WKU.

“Current student-athletes in the program will certainly be allowed to transfer immediately to another institution,” he said. “If they choose to remain a student at WKU, their current scholarship amounts will be honored through their senior years provided they remain in good academic and university standing.”

Marchionda has coached the men’s and women’s swim teams for nine seasons, winning seven conference titles.

Click here to read the university’s news release.