LU basketball players 'deeply saddened' by suspension
5 student-athletes release statement after suspension over alleged code of conduct violation
The five Laurentian Voyageurs men's basketball players suspended from the team following allegations that they breached the school's code of conduct for athletes say they're "deeply saddened" by the university's decision.
In a joint statement provided to CBC News through their legal counsel, the players stated that they attended a team party at a friend's parents' home.
"The party was an opportunity to engage off the court with those of our teammates who chose to attend," the statement read. "There was no coercion, no one was injured, and no one (including our teammates) raised a complaint with the University."
The statement said the players have been advised not to speak directly with the media until the ongoing discipline process is complete.
The school's communications department confirmed to CBC News on Wednesday that several players were suspended following an investigation into an alleged violation of the athlete code of conduct. The university didn't specify how many players were subject to discipline, but the athletes' statement, released on Thursday, confirmed five have been suspended.
"We have been suspended and, to date, have missed five weeks of practice and seven games," the statement continued, adding that the players are claiming they haven't received the written allegations yet.
The specifics of the alleged violation have not been made public.
Earlier this week, the university's student newspaper reported five players were suspended over hazing allegations. The editor-in-chief of the paper said the players have told her they do not believe their actions constitute hazing, and add they believe the school's code of conduct is too general.
Statements released by the university and the players confirmed the athletes have elected to have the matter reviewed by a committee of inquiry.
"We are proud Voyageurs and are respectful members of the Sudbury community," the players said in their statement.
"We promote Laurentian University, support other teams, volunteer in the community, and excel academically."