Suspension: GPRC Basketball - Cameron Wharram

2008-09 Season

January 29, 2008

With 2:55 remaining in the first half of a January 9, 2009 game between GPRC and NAIT, Official Wayne Ayling called a held ball between GPRC’s Cameron Wharram and a NAIT opponent. Mr. Wharram reacted angrily to the call, bumping Mr. Ayling with his chest. A technical foul was immediately issued as Mr. Wharram started to walk away. This offence would have warranted an immediate ejection. After taking a few steps, Mr. Wharram turned around and approached Mr. Ayling again, using two hands to forcefully push Mr. Ayling, causing him to fall down onto the playing surface. Mr. Wharram was then issued a second technical foul.  This assault was unprovoked. Fortunately, Mr. Ayling was able to complete the game and was able to referee on the following day.  Following the incident, I am advised by GPRC that they chose to immediately revoke Mr. Wharram’s scholarship and suspend him indefinitely.  Article I Section 13 Rule 9.1 represents the minimum suspension imposed as a result of a game ejection. It is the Commissioner’s responsibility to determine whether further sanctions are warranted. 

The behavior exhibited by Mr. Wharram is unacceptable and it cannot be condoned. Repeated Commissioner’s rulings have stressed the importance of treating ACAC officials with respect. Our ACAC playing surfaces must be safe places for those who dedicate their time and energy to our student-athletes. Mr. Wharram’s actions constitute the worst possible violation of this covenant.

After reviewing video footage of the incident, reading the detailed submissions of Mr. Ayling and considering this matter carefully, it is Commissioner B. Hendsbees’ feeling that a strong message of deterrence must be sent with this ruling. GPRC had nine (9) remaining league games left at the time of this incident.  Mr. Wharram is hereby suspended for the remainder of the 2008-09 season, including all league games, non-conference games and playoffs, should GPRC qualify. In addition, Mr. Wharram is suspended for the first (6) conference/league games of the 2009-10 season. In total, Mr. Wharram’s suspension is a minimum of fifteen (15) games, plus any possible playoff games during the 2008-09 season. Mr. Wharram must also provide a letter of apology to Mr. Ayling.  The letter of apology may be forwarded to Mr. Ayling via the ACAC Office.

In addition to the above, Mr. Wharram will be placed on probation for the remainder of his ACAC career.  Under the terms of this probation, should  Mr. Wharram engage in another case of violent behaviour toward any person (including a major or minor official, player, coach, team official or spectator) involved in an ACAC contest, in any sport, he will automatically receive a lifetime ban from the  Conference.

Commissioner B. Hendsbee 
(2008-09, Hendsbee)