Kentucky Fined

Published 12:00 am Tuesday, September 18, 2007

Kentucky fined for sportsmanship policy violation

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (Sept. 17) — The Southeastern Conference announced today that the University of Kentucky will be fined $25,000 for its second violation of the league’s access to competition area policy.

The policy, which went into effect on Dec. 1, 2004, states that “access to competition areas shall be limited to participating student-athletes, coaches, officials, support personnel and properly-credentialed individuals at all times.  For the safety of participants and spectators alike, at no time before, during or after a contest shall spectators be permitted to enter the competition area.  It is the responsibility of each member institution to implement procedures to ensure compliance with this policy.”

The violation occurred following Kentucky’s 40-34 football win over Louisville on Sept. 15 as fans entered the competition area of Commonwealth Stadium.
 
The $25,000 fine is a result of a second offense of the policy.  Kentucky’s first offense occurred on Nov. 4, 2006 when fans entered the competition area following the Wildcats’ 24-20 win over Georgia.

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“This policy is designed to create a safe environment for everyone who participates and attends our athletic contests,” said  SEC Commissioner Mike Slive.  “I understand the exuberance of the moment but the security and protection of our student-athletes, coaches, officials and fans is our primary concern.”
 
The policy, approved by all 12 SEC institutions, imposes financial penalties for violations in all sports at the discretion of the Commissioner.  Institutional financial packages range from $5,000 for a first offense to fines of up to $25,000 for a second offense and up to $50,000 for a third and subsequent offenses.
 
CHARLES R. BLOOM
Associate Commissioner