Press release from Notre Dame High School:
“After considering the information presented to the Section V Executive Committee at the administrative hearing held on Dec. 19, the Executive Committee has ruled that there has been no violation of the New York State Public High School Athletic Association (“NYSPHSAA”) sport standard #24 -- RECRUITMENT AND UNDUE INFLUENCE by Notre Dame of Batavia High School.”
Notre Dame is relieved for these three students, their families, and our hockey coach, Mr. Marc Staley.
It was unfortunate that our students, families, and staff, had to face these unfounded allegations of wrongdoing. Whether in the classroom, on the ice, or through community service, Notre Dame remains committed to instilling in our students the faith, knowledge, and confidence they will need to succeed in an ever-changing world. We are thankful for the thoughtful deliberation and time the Section V Executive Committee gave Notre Dame in making this decision.
When Marc Staley took over
When Marc Staley took over the Notre Dame hockey team, I knew that he would do a great job. He has not only the knowledge and experience to coach the team, but he really is passionate about building good teams of good students with good values and making sure that the players focus on their academics first.
The above is the reason that parents and hockey players want to attend Notre Dame and it's unfortunate that there are those who are apparently jealous of the success that results from that approach. What’s really unfortunate is that this could have ruined the season for the team and the school. I suppose there will always be people who can't stand to see others be successful.
When the charges were brought against the ND team it was disappointing, but It's good to see that after a review of the facts that Section V has come to its senses and rendered the correct decision.
Best of luck to Coach Staley and the ND Irish for a successful remainder of the season.
When I think of recruitment
When I think of recruitment scandals, I imagine the wild stories from big name D-1 schools of cash, booze, strippers, parties and luxury trips. I really can't imagine what a small Catholic school could have done to warrant such an accusation. Sounds like the whole thing was sour grapes to me. Glad they can move on for the sake of the students.
What could ND offer?
What could ND offer?
"Hey, kid... come play for us rather than your Catholic HS. The benches you kneel on during mass at ND are padded - gotta save those knees for the game, amiright?"
Now go have some fun and play hockey.