Platteville, Wisconsin – The University of Wisconsin‑Platteville announced that the women’s cross‑country program is on an indefinite pause while the Office of Compliance and Integrity conducts a hazing investigation. The pause, which began on Oct. 1, affects roughly 13‑14 of the 20‑member team, leaving only six freshmen able to continue competing in track and field.
University’s stated reason for the pause
In a letter dated Sept. 18, the university said it had received information that, if accurate, could constitute violations of UW‑System Chapter 17 and the Student‑Athlete Handbook anti‑hazing policy. The letter described alleged unsafe driving and other conduct that might breach university rules on dangerous behavior, hazing, and disruption of university‑authorized activities.
The Dean of Students followed up on Oct. 1, informing the women’s team that they are “respondents” in the ongoing investigation and that participation in all women’s cross‑country activities is temporarily suspended pending the outcome. The notice also warned that athletes restricted from cross‑country may not take part in track and field events while the probe remains open.
Team’s response and concerns
Runners, who spoke on condition of anonymity, expressed frustration over the lack of clarity. One athlete said, “We feel like we’re being punished and we don’t even know what it is that we did… they tell us to look in the handbook, but we can’t find the rule they’re accusing us of breaking.” Another added, “Are we gonna miss one week or are we gonna miss cross country forever? There’s genuinely just no timeline.”
Several teammates said they have repeatedly asked the athletic director and other administrators for a basic timeline and an explanation of why the investigation began, but have received no substantive answers. While the university’s email emphasized a “fair, thorough and respectful process,” the athletes noted a gap between verbal support and concrete action.
Impact on competition schedule
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The suspension has already cost the team the WIAC conference meet and threatens their participation in the regional meet scheduled for Nov. 14. The first indoor track meet is set for Dec. 5, and some athletes remain hopeful they can compete there, but the uncertainty makes planning difficult.
Freshmen who are still eligible to run report feeling isolated, saying, “They don’t want to go to meets alone… they don’t really feel like they know what they’re doing by themselves.” The investigation has also spilled over into academic and social realms, with some students considering transferring to other schools.
University’s broader context
The women’s investigation follows a similar pause for the men’s cross‑country season, which was suspended in September after allegations of hazing and student‑athlete conduct violations. Coach James Akita, who leads both the men’s and women’s teams, was placed on paid administrative leave on Sept. 4.
The Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (WIAC) issued a statement acknowledging the investigations and noting that it cannot provide further details while the university’s compliance office conducts its review.
Next steps
The Office of Compliance and Integrity will continue to gather information and determine responsibility. The university has offered counseling and other support resources to affected students. The team and its supporters are awaiting a definitive timeline and a clear explanation of any rule violations before they can resume full competition.
Original reporting: NBC15 WMTV (Gray) – local — read the source article.
