NCAA Findings on CSUN Football Expected to Reveal Illegal Tryout

The NCAA is expected to announce today the results of its investigation into alleged rules violations by the Cal State Northridge football program.

The Times has learned, from a former CSUN player who asked not to be identified, that the most likely cause of the investigation is an illegal tryout held on campus more than a year ago for prospective punters. NCAA rules forbid such tryouts.

If the NCAA takes disciplinary action, it is possible the punishment will be light since Tom Keele, head football coach at the time of the alleged violation, was not reappointed to his position for the 1986 season.

That announcement was made several weeks ago. The college is now conducting a search for a successor to Keele, who had been CSUN coach for seven years.

Bob Hiegert, Northridge athletic director, stressed at the time of Keele’s termination that the main reason for the dismissal was the team’s 4-7 record in 1985. Others close to the CSUN football program blamed administrative problems, such as the alleged violation.

“I have no comment,” said Keele when contacted at home Thursday night. “I will have no comment tomorrow. I will have no comment at any point.”

Lorin Pullman, sports information director at CSUN, released a statement Thursday that read: “There will be a joint release issued by the NCAA and CSUN today (Friday). The university has not yet received official word from the NCAA and therefore is unable to comment any further at this time.”

NCAA official Dale Smith, contacted at the organization’s Kansas headquarters, declined comment.