By now, many of you are aware that on Saturday, Kent State University halted a Division I field hockey match between the University of Maine and Temple University as it headed for double overtime in order to accommodate pregame events for our football game on an adjacent field.
It was a regrettable decision, and I am truly sorry about it. Ending the field hockey match prematurely – frustrating the dedicated student-athletes who were playing to win – does not align with our core values or our commitment to students.
All week, I have been thinking of the visiting student-athletes who spent countless hours practicing and preparing for a tournament on our campus, and of the parents who traveled here to show their support.
We can, and must, do better.
We have initiated an investigation into the matter, led by our Office of Compliance, Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action. The canceling of the field hockey match between these two teams does not reflect who we are as a university or as a welcoming community. Prioritizing a swift investigation and implementing its recommendations allows us to recalibrate our actions to once again reflect our highest ideals.
Thank you for all you do.
Sincerely,
Todd Diacon