'Credible reports of hazing' leads EIU to suspend men's swim team competition

UPDATE FRIDAY

Eastern Illinois University released a statement that said they engaged independent counsel, Finegan, Rinker, and Ghrist, to support an investigation into the claims of hazing made involving the men's swimming team.

The university plans on working with outside counsel to support and review the Dean of Students' investigation and will report its findings.

ORIGINAL

CHARLESTON, Ill. (WAND) - Eastern Illinois University said it is suspending the men's swim team competition for the fall 2023 semester following the disclosure to the head coach of credible reports of hazing.

Following the disclosure, the University and Intercollegiate Athletics initiated a formal investigation, led by EIU’s Office of the Dean of Students.

Details about the alleged hazing have not yet been released.

In a statement, the university said, "The health and wellness of our students is EIU’s topmost priority. For that reason, final decisions on future competition(s) and individual roster eligibility will be determined following the results of the investigation."