UM Fans Hopeful Despite Threat Of NCAA Sanctions
MIAMI GARDENS (CBSMiami) - The excitement at Sun Life Stadium was tempered by a tinge of frustration Friday as University of Miami fans gathered to kick-off another football season.
While the focus was on the game, some fans couldn't help but think about the looming possibility of NCAA sanctions against UM.
"I wish the NCAA would just hurry up and make a decision already," Alfonso Dager said.
This has been going on for more than two years.
"Oh, that needs to be over already," said one Canes' fan. "They need to have some guidelines on themselves to getting that over with."
The frustration was directed at the NCAA.
"It's time to put an end to it," Alex Espendez said. "The NCAA is an organization that's doing more harm than good."
Slideshow: See snapshots from Canes Season Opener
The NCAA delivered its Notice of Allegations to UM back in February after a two year-long investigation into claims of violations by players, coaches and staff, brought to light by former Hurricanes booster and convicted Ponzi-schemer, Nevin Shapiro.
UM has been accused of a "lack of institutional control."
University of Miami President Donna Shalala challenged aspects of the investigation and the university alleged incompetence by the NCAA.
The university self-imposed a 2-year bowl ban, forfeited a chance to play in an ACC championship game and withheld student athletes from competition .
"I think what we've already done has been enough and we'll be able to move on from all those issues," Dager explained.
No matter the penalty, fans said the waiting game is getting old.
"Get it over with," Vince Page said. "Give us what you're going to give us and we're going to play ball. 'Cause the whole world is watching and very, very leery of the Miami Hurricanes. They know we're coming."
There was a hearing earlier this summer about the alleged violations.
The outcome of that hearing was expected to be announced six to eight weeks later.
Eleven weeks have passed.
