MASCOTS

Review process established; Florida State removed from list

The NCAA Executive Committee approved a process August 18 by which colleges and universities subject to restrictions on the use of Native American mascots, names and imagery at NCAA championships will be reviewed.

The first review under that process resulted in the removal of Florida State University from a list of universities and colleges that are subject to those restrictions.

Reviews will be directed to Bernard Franklin, NCAA senior vice-president for governance and membership and chair of an NCAA staff committee designated by the Executive Committee to review all facts related to each institution's appeal.

The staff review committee will decide, as it did in Florida State's case, if an institution should remain subject to the policy. The staff's decisions may be reviewed by the Executive Committee.

"This is a complex issue and the circumstances surrounding each institution's use of Native American mascots and imagery is different," Franklin said. "Each review will be considered on the unique aspects and circumstances as it relates to the specific use and practice at that college or university."

One primary factor that will be considered in the review is if documentation exists that a "namesake" tribe has formally approved of the use of the mascot, name and imagery by the institution.

That factor was involved in the decision regarding Florida State.

"The NCAA Executive Committee continues to believe the stereotyping of Native Americans is wrong," Franklin said. "However, in its review of the particular circumstances regarding Florida State, the staff review committee noted the unique relationship between the university and the Seminole Tribe of Florida as a significant factor. The NCAA recognizes the many different points of view on this matter, particularly within the Native American community. The decision of a namesake sovereign tribe, regarding when and how its name and imagery can be used, must be respected even when others may not agree.

"The NCAA position on the use of Native American mascots, names and imagery has not changed, and the NCAA remains committed to ensuring an atmosphere of respect and sensitivity for all who participate in and attend our championships. This decision applies to the unique relationship Florida State University has with the Seminole Tribe of Florida. Requests for reviews from other institutions will be handled on a case-by-case basis."

NCAA President Myles Brand also commented on the review process.

"It is vitally important that we maintain a balance between the interests of a particular Native American tribe and the NCAA's responsibility to ensure an atmosphere of respect and sensitivity for all who attend and participate in our championships. We recognize that there are many points of view associated with this issue and we also know that some Native American groups support the use of mascots and imagery and some do not; that is why we will pay particular attention to special circumstances associated with each institution."

APR

Academic Progress Rate calls scheduled to explain reports

The NCAA staff will conduct informational conference calls August 29 through September 1 in an effort to assist member institutions in understanding Academic Progress Rate reports and preparing for potential media inquiries. These calls are open to all staff members employed by an NCAA member institution (for example, athletics administrators, chief executive officers, faculty, and media relations and sports information staff members).

The calls are scheduled at 2 p.m. August 29, 12:30 p.m. August 30, 10 a.m. August 31 and 11 a.m. September 1 (all Central time).

Participants should dial in to the conference call telephone number about five to 10 minutes before the start of the call. The operator will ask for a confirmation code.Staff contact: Beth Newman (bnewman@ncaa.org)

CENTENNIAL

Centennial activation kits arriving at member schools

In anticipation of the NCAA Centennial celebration beginning January 1, 2006, the NCAA staff has compiled and distributed activation kits to help member institutions take part.

The kit provides information about different ways member schools can be involved, including $250 worth of free NCAA Centennial signage and decals. Institutions can choose from Centennial banners customized with the school's logo, court decals, logo banners, logo window clings and flags. Institutions will be responsible for orders over and above $250.

Also available for use by members are NCAA Centennial brand campaign spots, print advertisement templates and banners, education materials about the history of the NCAA and intercollegiate athletics, and other resources for membership use.

Orders for all items will be accepted online beginning September 1. Staff contact: Mary Eiland (meiland@ncaa.org)

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