Eligibility: UAA XC Running-Cook

2021-22 Season

October 25, 2021 

Facts:

UAA has self-reported that Chelsea Cook was not eligible to participate during Grand Prix races on October 2, 2021 and October 16, 2021.

Although she was listed on a supplemental eligibility list, UAA has since determined that Ms. Cook was a part-time student at the time she participated in the races identified above.

Ruling:

Article I Section S Rule 1.1 of the ACAC Operating Code states as follows:

1.1. Academic Load and Status

To be eligible for ACAC competition, a student-athlete must be enrolled as a full-time student in post secondary courses, in the semester of participation at the accredited post-secondary institution for which he/she represents. (Amended June 2011)

Article I Section S Rule 10.1 of the ACAC Operating Code states as follows:

10.1 Use of an Ineligible Student-Athlete

Where it has been determined that a member institution is in violation of the rules of eligibility and has used an ineligible student-athlete.. .the Commissioner shall exercise his or her discretion to determine an appropriate sanction.

I accept that there was no intention on the part of UAA to circumvent the Operating Code and I appreciate that UAA self-reported this issue. However, it is vital that ACAC member institutions comply with eligibility rules. Accordingly, the following sanctions are hereby imposed:

1. Ms. Cook's results will be removed from the races in question; and 
2. UAA is to forthwith pay a fine of $500 to the ACAC Office.

Sincerely,

Bill Hendsbee 
ACAC Commissioner