The department of athletics identified secondary NCAA rule violations within the Bison wrestling program on Feb. 9. These infractions were reported to the NCAA, and the University took the initiative to impose a two-match suspension penalty on head wrestling coach Dan Wirnsberger. Wirnsberger missed the team’s dual matches against Binghamton and Army West Point earlier this month.

When questioned about the incident, Director of Athletics & Recreation John Hardt maintained that he has stressed the necessity for full NCAA compliance among department staff. Since the first day of his tenure as athletic director, Hardt has been clear with all of his employees about the University’s zero-tolerance policy.

“We work tirelessly with our coaches and staff to ensure that they have a complete understanding of the NCAA rulebook, and we have ample resources in place when questions arise,” Hardt said.

Hardt expressed his disappointment regarding the incident, and mentioned that the department of athletics will take further measures to ensure that violations don’t occur in the future.

“It is extremely disappointing that these secondary violations occurred, and we will be implementing additional corrective compliance and educational measures for the program,” Hardt said.

Hardt declined further comment on the nature of the violations.