The University of Kentucky conducted a three-month investigation into the cheerleading program, in which it found poor oversight by members of the cheer squad in off-campus events, according to a press release sent out by UK Athletics spokesman Jay Blanton.
In the report, they found inappropriate use of alcohol, hazing activities, and incidents of public nudity. In conclusion to these findings, UK has decided to dismiss all four of its cheerleading coaches, including long-time advisor T. Lynn Williamson who has been a part of the program for four decades.
University of Kentucky President Eli Capilouto commented on the matter in the press release, calling it a rare instance in which supervisors failed to protect students in the program.
“The University of Kentucky has built the nation’s premier collegiate cheerleading program. But regrettably, the intergrity of the program has been compromised by the inappropriate behavior by some squad members on off-campus trips and by lax oversight by the pogram’s coaches and advisor,” Capilouto said.
The investigation also uncovered potential conflict of interest between the gymnastics and cheerleading programs. According to the press release, two members of the gymnastics coaching staff employed members of the cheerleading squad and the advisor, who herself hired students and coaches to perform work at home.
As a national powerhouse, the UK cheerleading program has won 24 national titles. After the results of this investigation, the future of the program is uncertain. UK Athletics is conducting an immediate national search for a new coach, and a new start to the winning program.