The University of Alabama released the following statements this evening in reaction to the NCAA requiring defensive lineman Marcell Dareus to miss two games and repay benefits:
Statement from Alabama football head coach Nick Saban:
“We respect the decision but we are at the same time disappointed in the suspension. We’ll continue to support Marcell as we move forward. Hopefully Marcell and all involved have learned a valuable lesson from this and like I’ve said before, we will continue to work on establishing stronger legislation in terms of agent and financial advisor guidelines.”
Statement from Mike Ward, University of Alabama associate athletics director for compliance:
“We are appreciative of the NCAA’s efforts in this matter. It is important to note that Marcell never intentionally violated any NCAA rules and did not knowingly receive any benefits from an agent. Marcell lived up to the letter and spirit of the NCAA cooperative principle and the NCAA described him as “one of the most truthful student-athletes we have ever interviewed.” While the institution weighs the decision to appeal, we will continue to pursue all available means to protect our student-athletes and their families from agents and financial advisors willing to compromise or exploit them. We will assist the NCAA, NFL, NFLPA, and any interested state and federal regulatory bodies in their prosecution, regulation, or sanctioning of individuals who disregard legislation pertaining to our student-athletes.”
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