The Notre Dame men’s swimming program has been suspended for at least one academic year after an investigation confirmed concerns regarding gambling and culture. Athletic Director Pete Bevacqua expressed that the behavior uncovered is contrary to the university’s values and has decided to suspend the program to rebuild a culture of dignity and respect. The women’s swimming team and diving teams were not involved in the operation, and head coach Chris Lindauer and the coaching staff were not disciplined. The NCAA prohibits athletes from gambling on college sports, and Notre Dame found numerous violations of this rule despite providing training on the topic.
While the men’s swimmers are allowed to transfer to other schools, any discipline they receive will follow them to another program. Swimmers who remain at Notre Dame may also face punishment. This decision comes after the men’s swimming team achieved their first top-10 finish at the NCAA championships and sent their first male swimmer to the Olympics. Bevacqua reaffirmed the university’s commitment to fostering a community of student-athletes who reflect their values and hopes this decision sends a clear message regarding their expectations.
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