Belton, Texas – The University of Mary Hardin-Baylor has a proud history of exemplary programs for student-athletes. As members of NCAA Division III and the American Southwest Conference, the university treats compliance with the rules governing athletics very seriously. On Monday, April 9, 2018, the university self-reported rule violations to the NCAA’s enforcement office regarding extra benefits to two football student-athletes. The infractions do not involve sexual misconduct, academic fraud, or financial aid.
The violations are, by NCAA rule definition, major infractions. Based on its investigation, the university believes there was no intention to violate or circumvent the rules. There was no effort to hide or deny the conduct which resulted in extra benefits to student-athletes, and the benefits were not provided with an intention to obtain either a recruiting advantage or competitive advantage. However, since major rule infractions are involved, the university has suspended head football coach Pete Fredenburg for three months without pay and for the first three games of the 2018 football season. Defensive coordinator Larry Harmon will serve as interim head coach during this period.
“I’ve spent my entire career as a football coach investing in kids,” said Coach Fredenburg. “In this instance, I unintentionally broke an NCAA rule. I regret this and I accept responsibility.”
The university also identified possible secondary violations outside the football program, which are being reviewed by the NCAA. The university regrets that violations occurred and has taken corrective actions to ensure they are not repeated. The university will fully cooperate with the NCAA as they review this matter, and the university will not comment further until the NCAA’s process has been completed.
“UMHB is committed to upholding both the spirit and letter of NCAA rules, and we will use this as a learning opportunity,” said Randy O’Rear, President. “The university will continue its tradition of excellence and hold itself to the highest standards of compliance and integrity.”
