JOHN KATKO 2ann Diemer, Ne Yon Suocounurrek 0 RatoADs ata homea Prete, ano Hazan Mavens. Congress of the United States Leceaeg eben eet Sunconnerree House of Representatives ces Washington, BC 20515-3224 coon 0 March 31, 2015 Dr. Mark Emmert President National Collegiate Athletic Association P.O. Box 6222 Indianapolis, IN 46206 Dear Dr. Emmert: | write in regard to the National Collegiate Athletic Association's (NCAA) recent conclusion of the eight- year investigation into academic and drug policy violations by the Syracuse University men’s basketball program. This lengthy investigation resulted in harshly-imposed sanctions which stripped Syracuse University of 12 student scholarships and canceled 108 victories, despite Syracuse University’s self- imposed ban on post-season play. While | understand and agree that Syracuse University must take responsibility for any misconduct, | have grave concerns that the punishment does not fit the crime in this instance. Syracuse University has acknowledged responsibility for any wrongdoing on its part. The University, many innocent and future student-athletes, and support staff have been severely damaged by this decision. The University’s program is an important component of the City of Syracuse’s economy. The sanctions imposed by the NCAA on Syracuse University do the most harm to student athletes ~ the very individuals the NCAA Is charged to protect. As you are no doubt aware, any wrongdoing by Syracuse University took place prior to the enrollment of any students who will be negatively impacted by the scholarship reductions. These sanctions bar future student-athletes opportunities to receive a college degree and directly contradict your organization’ goal of promoting higher education opportunities forall student athletes. | strongly urge you to reconsider your decision. Moreover, the arbitrary decision-making processes implemented by your organization remain ‘unexplained and | have serious concerns that NCAA standards are not applied uniformly nationwide. | am troubled by the timing of the sanctions imposed on Syracuse University, as they were made public on the eve of Syracuse University’s last nationally televised game of the season and were seemingly designed to demean Coach Boeheim, a Hall of Fame coach who has remained loyal to his alma materwho has done so much to advance collegiate basketball on the national and international stage for more than five decades. | strongly ask for your reconsideration in imposing these sanctions. ‘Thank you for your immediate consideration of this request. oe ohn Katko Member of Congress, NY=24