Virginia senator warns NCAA over denying James Madison bowl game opportunity.
Virginia Senate President Warns NCAA: “We Will Go to War”
James Madison University’s Bowl Game Hopes Hang in the Balance
Democratic Virginia Senate President Pro Tempore L. Louise Lucas has issued a strong warning to the NCAA, making it clear that the Virginia legislature will not take kindly to any obstruction of James Madison University’s participation in a bowl game this season.
The James Madison Dukes, currently in their second year of a mandatory postseason suspension, are eager to compete after transitioning from the Football Championship Subdivision to the Football Bowl Subdivision. While the suspension is a standard NCAA practice for teams moving up, the university had requested a waiver to allow them to participate in the 2023 postseason. Unfortunately, their request was denied in April.
“Let me remind the NCAA that they are required by their charter to follow state laws where they operate. If they continue to hold James Madison football hostage to a technical rule and stop them from competing in the postseason, they will face a very unfriendly future from our legislature,” Lucas boldly stated on X.
Lucas didn’t stop there. She directly addressed NCAA President Charlie Baker, leaving no room for misinterpretation.
“Since you are new, ask around about the legislative help Virginia has provided your organization over the years. I’ve been in the Senate for 32 years and can recall numerous instances where you all needed our assistance. Virginia will go to war on this,” Lucas declared.
Lucas is not alone in her fight. Virginia Attorney General Jason Miyares also expressed his disappointment with the NCAA’s decision, calling it “tone deaf” to deny postseason opportunities to a team that is currently ranked 25th in the country according to the Associated Press NCAA football poll.
“It’s tone deaf that the NCAA is going to deny postseason opportunities to student-athletes on a team that is ranked in both the Associated Press top 25 poll and Coaches Top 25 poll. #GoDukes,” Miyares passionately posted.
The James Madison Dukes have been dominating the 2023 football season with a perfect 7-0 record, including a recent 20-7 victory over Marshall. Despite leading the Sun Belt Conference, they are prohibited from participating in the conference’s championship game or any bowl game due to the NCAA’s suspension.
It remains to be seen whether the NCAA will reconsider their decision and allow James Madison University to showcase their talent on the postseason stage. One thing is certain, however: Virginia is prepared to fight tooth and nail to ensure their team gets the opportunity they deserve.
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How do economic benefits, such as tourism and job creation, tie into the importance of James Madison University participating in a bowl game?
Promote fairness and equity in college sports,” stated Lucas in a press conference. “By denying James Madison University’s request for a waiver, they are clearly disregarding their own principles. We will not stand idly by while the NCAA obstructs the opportunities of our student-athletes.”
Lucas went on to stress the importance of James Madison University’s participation in a bowl game, not only for the university itself but also for the state of Virginia. She highlighted the economic benefits that come with hosting or participating in a bowl game, including increased tourism, job creation, and exposure for the state.
“The NCAA needs to understand that this is not just about one university; it is about an entire community and the livelihoods of many,” Lucas asserted. “We are prepared to do whatever it takes to ensure that James Madison University gets their chance on the national stage.”
The Virginia Senate President’s warning comes amid growing frustration with the NCAA’s policies and decision-making processes. Critics argue that the organization often prioritizes the interests of powerhouse programs and ignores the concerns of smaller schools like James Madison University.
Lucas’s threat of going to war with the NCAA has prompted mixed reactions. Some applaud her for standing up for the rights of student-athletes and institutions, while others worry about the potential consequences of such action. The NCAA has significant control over college athletics, and a conflict with the organization could have far-reaching effects on Virginia’s sports programs.
However, Lucas remains resolute in her stance. She has pledged to work with her colleagues in the legislature to explore all possible avenues to protect James Madison University’s interests. This includes potential legislative action, legal challenges, and lobbying efforts at the national level.
“We are determined to fight for what is right and just,” Lucas declared. “We will not back down until James Madison University is given the fair treatment it deserves.”
As the battle between the NCAA and Virginia’s lawmakers escalates, James Madison University remains hopeful that a resolution can be reached in time for them to participate in the 2023 postseason. The university and its football program have gained significant recognition in recent years and are eager to showcase their talent on a national scale.
Ultimately, the outcome of this conflict will not only determine the fate of James Madison University’s bowl game hopes but also shape the relationship between the NCAA and state governments moving forward. The NCAA is being challenged to reevaluate its practices and prioritize fairness and equity for all member institutions, regardless of their size or status. Only time will tell whether the threat of “going to war” will yield the desired results for James Madison University and its passionate supporters.
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