Days ago we learned of significant allegations regarding Steve Addazio's staff telling players not to report Covid related symptoms.
This evening AD Joe Parker released the following statement.
"Today, we learned of some extremely troubling allegations of racism and verbal abuse from CSU's athletic administration generally and in the football program specifically.
Colorado State University is committed to being an anti-racist university, and we will not tolerate any behavior or climate that goes against that core value. Moreover, CSU Athletics is committed to the health and well-being of student-athletes above all other priorities, and this includes their mental health. We believe it is our responsibility to make sure that all student-athletes feel welcomed and valued as members of an inclusive athletics community.
I have consulted with President McConnell about these new allegations, which obviously deeply concern her as well. Effective immediately, and for the best interests of our student-athletes, I am pausing all football-related activities indefinitely. This includes practices, workouts, and team meetings. I have also asked President McConnell to expand the independent investigation she announced on Tuesday to include a comprehensive review of our athletic department and football program specifically related to allegations of racism and verbal abuse. While we have been working hard towards playing football this fall, the holistic well-being of our student-athletes is our unequivocal top priority. We must and will address these allegations before we focus on playing football."
All is not well at CSU.
The fascinating issue here is that CSU's President said just days ago that her office would conduct an investigation. However, this statement comes from the athletic directors offices. Clearly, there are levels to the issues here.
Sources tell FootballScoop the issues addressed above involve both the current football staff, and the former staff under Mike Bobo's leadership....all in addition to the athletic department under Joe Parker's watch.
We will update when more is available on this one.
As always, stay tuned to The Scoop for the latest information.