LSU self-imposes penalties on women’s tennis program

BATON ROUGE — LSU is self-imposing penalties on the women’s tennis program based on the NCAA’s determination of a Level III/secondary violation originally reported to the NCAA by university officials.

Upon becoming aware of the alleged violations in early May 2017, LSU conducted a cooperative investigation with NCAA officials. LSU notified Julia and Michael Sell, the women’s tennis co-head coaches, in July of initial penalties the school would self-impose on the program while the matter was investigated.

“Julia and Michael are terrific coaches and honorable people and we stand firmly by them in this matter,” said Vice Chancellor and Director of Athletics Joe Alleva. “We’re also going to learn from this for the future and be accountable with these self-imposed penalties.”

The NCAA identified three areas of violations. LSU gear, valued at $68, was given to a prospective student athlete. Two prospects participated in hitting sessions in violation of NCAA “tryout” legislation. A $250 payment was made to a former LSU tennis player who conducted hitting session with a prospect during the academic year. Though a former student, the payment for his services is considered a violation due to the close proximity of his recently concluded eligibility.

LSU has self-imposed multiple penalties that include a 30-day suspension of recruiting, a one-week suspension of practice, and prospects will not be allowed to hit at LSU’s tennis facilities for one academic year. Alleva said additional continuing education on compliance rules will be mandated for tennis coaches and staff.

The NCAA has accepted these penalties, and the matter is now closed.