SOUTH BEND, Ind. – Notre Dame shocked the sports world Thursday by announcing the suspension of its men’s swimming program for at least one year. This decision came after an external review uncovered serious violations of NCAA rules by team members.

The violations included internal wagering on competition results and a lack of respect among teammates. Athletic director Pete Bevacqua stated, “In order to rebuild a culture of dignity and exemplary conduct, we have decided to suspend the men’s swimming program for at least one academic year.”

No details of the external review conducted by a law firm were disclosed by Notre Dame. However, sources revealed that team members engaged in internal betting on their own performances at meets through a makeshift sportsbook. The review also discovered derogatory group chats and bets on non-swimming events among team members.

While the women’s swimming and diving teams and the men’s diving team were found to be uninvolved, over 60% of the returning team members participated in the betting activities. Coach Chris Lindauer and his staff cooperated with the review, although no coaches were dismissed.

Despite the challenging circumstances, Notre Dame remains hopeful for the future. Olympic gold medalist Chris Guiliano, a member of the Notre Dame team, was not implicated in the wagering scandal. The university remains committed to upholding a positive experience for all student-athletes.

Recent changes in NCAA sanctions for gambling violations have emphasized a more lenient approach, particularly for minor infractions. Notre Dame’s decision to suspend the men’s swimming program reflects its dedication to promoting ethical behavior among its student-athletes.

Similar cases of gambling violations have surfaced in college sports recently, adding urgency to the need for institutions to enforce strict ethical standards. Alabama and Iowa were both embroiled in betting scandals involving college athletes, resulting in serious consequences for those involved.