Following the suspension of the Auburn Bass Fishing Team until Jan. 1, 2022, school officials and the team have reached an agreement to lessen the suspension to April 22, 2021. The Auburn Bass Fishing Team was sent a memorandum in late March informing them of the team’s suspension due to what the school noted as violations to Auburn’s COVID-19 travel policy. Joseph P. Durham, Jr. Attorney at Law was the bass fishing team’s legal representation for this meeting. He expressed that he was grateful for the willingness of the University officials to listen and learn more about the bass fishing team and what the sport is all about. He posted the following statement on his website after the meeting concluded, saying:
“We have reached a resolution that will allow the Auburn team to be back on the water within a few weeks. Throughout this appeal process, Dr. Woodard and the Auburn Administration gave thorough and fair consideration to all of the facts and treated these young anglers with respect. Most importantly, these discussions have resulted in the Auburn University administration gaining a better understanding of the unique nature of the Fishing Team which will result in the growth of the team and additional support of the team.
“I appreciate these young men trusting me to represent them. A special thank you to those who answered my questions and provided information and support.”
Both sides met today to discuss the individuals and hear the circumstances surrounding the Auburn Bass Fishing Team’s suspension from all sides. Following what they deemed a successful meeting for both sides, Auburn officials released the following statement:
“After a productive meeting, Auburn University and its Bass Fishing Club have mutually agreed to the club sports team and student organization being placed on suspension until April 22, 2021, with the understanding that the club will adhere to all university protocols in the future. The club committed multiple violations of Auburn’s travel policy and was subsequently suspended for knowingly and repeatedly violating travel regulations. These policies, which have applied to all Auburn club sports teams, were put in place to lessen the risk of harm and/or injury to the students, the public, and Auburn. Whether in or out of the classroom, Auburn will continue to uphold a high standard of excellence as an expectation for its students, faculty, and staff.”
