June 5, 2007
SANTA FE, N.M. - During its annual spring meeting June 3-5, the MWC Board of Directors took actions on a number of actions related to business of the Mountain West Conference and national issues in intercollegiate athletics. Included in those actions were the following:
Approved an adjusted format for the MWC Basketball Championships recommended by the MWC Joint Council. The new approach involves moving the men's #8 seed vs. #9 seed opening round game from Tuesday to Wednesday and coupling it with the four women's quarterfinals. Game times will be adjusted to accommodate the men's opener, while the week will get underway with the women's first-round #8 seed vs. #9 seed contest at 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday.
Established a one-game suspension as the presumptive penalty for a second ejection from a contest in any sport, as well reaffirming action by the Joint Council to implement a one-game suspension as the presumptive penalty for a second offense under the public criticism provisions of the MWC's sportsmanship rule.
Provided strong backing to efforts designed to create positive competitive environments and empowered the institutional athletics directors to take actions necessary to assure positive sportsmanlike behavior.
Opposed the establishment of an early signing period in the sport of football. The Board noted a current lack of consensus among the MWC football coaches on this issue.
Supported the concept of a fifth season of eligibility in the sport of football. The NCAA Football Issues Committee has solicited feedback on the concept as it considers whether to submit legislation into the NCAA governance structure.
"This was a very productive meeting," said Dr. Larry Edward Penley, President of Colorado State University and current chair of the MWC Board of Directors. "The Board is pleased with the growth and development of the Conference and committed to continued success moving forward."
