Friday, July 17, 2015
by Jacksonville Athletic Media Relations

ST. LOUIS and JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The Pioneer Football League (PFL) recently concluded its review of Jacksonville University’s football program’s use of financial aid. In addition to accepting the school’s voluntary removal from its 2010 and 2014 championships, the league has imposed a one-year ban on postseason play for the 2015 season.

In response to a league survey, a university-ordered internal review in the fall of 2014 found possible infractions of the PFL’s financial aid rules. The school reported to the league its findings, that aid was inappropriately dispersed to football players, and elected to remove itself from consideration for the championships and to vacate conference wins from 2010-2014.

“The PFL Enforcement Committee, composed of three league presidents and two athletic directors, met with the university to adjudicate the case and made final decisions on the matter. The committee has fully accepted Jacksonville’s self-imposed sanctions and has decided upon a ban on 2015 post-season play,’’ PFL Commissioner Patty Viverito said. “Throughout the process, Jacksonville has been forthright, straight forward and a model of character and integrity.’’

Although PFL rules on financial aid were not followed, no NCAA violations were found either in the school’s internal review or the league’s proceedings.

“We accept the league’s findings and thank them for their careful review,’’ JU Chief Athletics Officer/Athletic Director Donnie Horner said. “We at JU are committed to conducting ourselves honorably.’’

For questions, please contact Jim Nasella, Jacksonville University Director of Athletic Communications, at (904) 382-3651.