Concerned parents aren't the only people warning Ohio University students to be careful during the annual Halloween celebration in Athens. Athletes are under added scrutiny from coaches and the athletic department to make sure they follow team and department guidelines, as well as university rules.
Director of Athletics Thomas Boeh said athletes are told about the possible consequences of getting in trouble during Halloween weekend.
We warn them quite a bit about the ramifications
he said.
Boeh said discipline of an athlete is first determined by OU Judiciaries. Then, the athletic department and a player's coach can add to any punishment. The NCAA does not get involved unless the case involves gambling.
We take our lead from judiciaries Boeh said.
Volleyball player Holly Schetzsle said she feels an added sense of responsibility to not get in trouble during the block party, as do most of her teammates.
You have a certain standard to live up to she said. You're representing the university.
Soccer player Crystal Reed said the thought of coming into conflict with the police is on every athlete's mind.
There's definitely that burden that nobody wants to get in trouble
she said.
Soccer coach Stacy Strauss had a solution of her own to make sure her athletes stayed away from Uptown on the biggest party night of the year. Earlier this fall, she offered to put the team up in a Columbus hotel during Halloween weekend.
I wanted to avoid any problems that typically occur from people who are out of town
she said.
However, the team decided to stay in Athens for the weekend. Reed said that the senior class made the decision.
She (Strauss) laid the decision on us
Reed said. We're adults
and we can control ourselves.
Strauss also said she gives the team a speech reminding them to be careful during the weekend. This year, an OUPD officer addressed the team.
Student-athletes, Boeh said, will face not only the discipline of the judiciaries and the athletic department if they get in trouble but also could face public scrutiny and detract from the university's image.
A student-athlete in trouble will get more notoriety
Boeh said. It's a double-edged sword.
Schetzsle said that she feels Ohio athletes represent their university well.
I've never heard of any real violations
she said. I think we respect and watch ourselves even more.
Although student and athlete misconduct is magnified during Halloween, Boeh said the athletic department tries to keep athletes in line year-round.
We try to be vigilant all year round
he said. We try to have them (athletes) make the right decision
but I'm sure all coaches are reminding players (this week) to be careful.
