Illinois’ athletic department will address the issue of sexual assault at schools in a serious way few schools have been willing to: through policy. The department is drafting a proposed ban on players with a history of sexual assault or domestic violence, athletic director Josh Whitman told the Tribune on Monday. Illinois could implement its proposed policy as early as the start of the 2017-18 academic year, Whitman said.
In recent years, more schools have brought in speakers to talk to athletes about assault. Many schools use vague talking points to address concerns. Unfortunately, some programs still attempt to cover up or defend these acts.
Commend Whitman and Illinois for setting a higher standard that could have real impact.
With this move, Illinois would set a tone for the culture of its athletic program that winning is not above all else, most important the safety and security of women on campus.