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IU athletics director, women's coach issue statements concerning player
Feb. 7, 2001
NOTE: Following are statements issued today by Clarence Doninger, director of athletics at Indiana University, and Kathi Bennett, IU women's head basketball coach. IU has launched an inquiry into its handling of incidents surrounding IU women's basketball player Rachael Honegger. If you need further assistance, contact Susan Dillman, IU director of media relations, at 812-855-0850 or sdillman@indiana.edu
Clarence Doninger:
"In recent days, much media attention has focused on IU women's basketball player Rachael Honegger, who pled guilty to theft last October.
"When this charge first surfaced last spring, the IU Department of Athletics conducted an internal probe and chose not to make public any actions that we took. I stand by that decision. The Athletics Department became aware of this problem during a hectic time relating to the men's basketball program. Unfortunately, there was an inadvertent communications gap with IU President Myles Brand, which I regret.
"On Monday, President Brand asked the IU Athletics Committee to further review this matter. With that inquiry under way, President Brand and I have agreed to suspend Ms. Honegger from playing in all IU basketball games until this inquiry is completed. This action, I believe, is in Ms. Honegger's best interest. Ms. Honegger will be allowed to practice and travel with the team, but not play in the regular season or post-season games until this inquiry is completed. It is my hope that the matter can be resolved quickly and Ms. Honegger can be reinstated fully to the team."
Kathi Bennett:
"I believe what we did initially was correct, but I also understand, accept and support President Brand's decision. I will continue to stand behind Rachael."