Codey Calls on Rutgers President Barchi to Launch Outside Investigation into the Handling of Abuse Allegations Made by the Softball Team

LIVINGSTON – In a letter sent earlier today to Rutgers President Robert Barchi, State Senator Richard J. Codey called on the University to begin an outside investigation into allegations of abusive behavior by the softball coaching staff.

“Rutgers University has a responsibility to the student athletes who play there,” Senator Codey stated in his request.  “It seems clear that when players and their families went to officials to address the problem, they were pushed aside. Players work hard and dedicate themselves to succeeding, but shouldn’t ever be forced to endure abusive behavior.

“Athlete safety must be priority number one, and the A.D. Patrick Hobbs has to have that commitment from everyone in the department. Charges of coaches abusing their power over athletes, especially when it puts players in harm’s way, must be taken seriously.

“We work hard here in New Jersey to combat bullying in our schools, and the idea of college level coaches bullying verbally and physically is unacceptable. The intense competitive nature of high-level sports doesn’t give anyone carte blanche to cross the line of acceptable behavior. Coaches should be leading by example, not ruling through threats and fear.

“College athletes put their blood sweat and tears into being their best on the field and they deserve the support of the university community.  President Barchi must prove that players’ wellbeing comes first, and a thorough investigation into charges like this is an important part of that.”