WVU linebackers Tyler Anderson, left, and Bruce Irvin, right, stand by wearing vests during Day 1 of Fall Camp at Milan Puskar Stadium Saturday, August 7, 2010. WVI Photo by David Miller
The NCAA is investigating West Virginia for allegedly dressing players in more than just helmets during their first two days of practice violating the protective equipment policy. It was reported that several players wore vests (lightweight shoulder pads and protective vests) during the first two days of practice which is a direct violation of the NCAA helmet only rule.
Rule 17.9.2.3 subsection ‘d’ which states, in full:
“During the first two days of the acclimatization period, helmets shall be the only piece of protective equipment student-athletes may wear. During the third and fourth days of the acclimatization period, helmets and shoulder pads shall be the only pieces of protective equipment student-athletes may wear. During the final day of the five-day period and on any days thereafter, student-athletes may practice in full pads.”
West Virginia kicked off preseason this past Saturday already in hot water for 5 major violations and 1 secondary violation from 2005 to 2009. The violations stem from exceeding permissible practice time to failing to monitor and failing to promote an atmosphere of compliance. If the vest incident proves to be true (see image above), it will only be labeled as a secondary violation. However, this violation coupled by the 6 pending violations may catch up to the program and heavy sanctions could be forthcoming. West Virginia has 90 days to respond to the claim. Coach Stewart has the rest of the season to prevent any more violations.
