The University of Delaware Monday upheld its decision to suspend the school’s club men's rugby team until Spring 2018, denying an appeal of that penalty by the club.
The suspension was handed down September 18th after Office of Student Conduct determined a camera crew from “I’m Schmacked” visited a party held by the team September 9th at a house knows as the Rugby House. Soon after, police were called to handle a group of thousands that packed streets in downtown Newark causing some damage to property and cars.
The university says that the original hearing officer and the Appellate Board independently determined there is "sufficient and overwhelming evidence" that the rugby team as a group was responsible for the events that night.
The suspension effectively shuts the team down. It is barred from practicing as a team on-or-off campus; recruiting members or engaging in rugby-related athletic or social functions.
The team is allowed to petition Office of Student Conduct annually to have the suspension reconsidered.