Lehigh University Athletics
Lehigh statement on PL football scholarships
6/5/2009 12:00:00 AM | Football
BETHLEHEM, Pa. – On Friday, June 5, 2009 the Patriot League issued the following statement:
Fordham University notified the Patriot League that it will begin awarding athletic scholarships to its football class entering in the fall of 2010. As a result, the Patriot League Football Presidents have endorsed an agreement with Fordham wherein the Rams will continue their association with the League but will be ineligible for the Patriot League title and automatic playoff berth beginning that season. Fordham will remain as an associate member in the Patriot League, and will continue to be eligible for the League title and automatic playoff berth in the 2009 season. Fordham will still follow the same academic and eligibility requirements as other League members.
Below are statements from Lehigh University Dean of Athletics Joe Sterrett and Lehigh University Head Football Coach Andy Coen regarding the matter.
Lehigh University Dean of Athletics Joe Sterrett:
“The subject of awarding financial aid to athletic prospects that is not limited by demonstrated need is not a new one. Lehigh has participated actively in all the league discussions on this issue. The athletic merit financial aid awards that Lehigh offers in sports other than football have contributed positively to yielding student-athletes of desirable academic quality, strong athletic quality and other qualities that Lehigh values. We understand the reasons for Fordham’s decision and hope that the ongoing discussions will enable them to remain a member of the Patriot League.”
Lehigh University Head Football Coach Andy Coen:
“At this time, I view Fordham's move to scholarship football as a positive move. I am excited that the League Presidents are committed to discussions on awarding athletic merit aid for all league members. I am certainly a proponent of scholarship football in our league. I have no doubt that scholarships would enhance Patriot League football on the national level, which I believe would help every member institution.”
