The NAIA and Dordt University were informed that Marian University is vacating its NAIA FCS Football Second Round win over Dordt due to an eligibility violation.
The NAIA National Administrative Council reviewed the situation and determined that Keiser University, Marian’s opponent in the quarterfinal round, will advance to the semifinal round by forfeit. This decision aligns with the NAIA bylaw stating: When an ineligible student participates, all the ineligible student’s statistics shall be deleted from the records. Individual statistics earned by eligible students shall stand. All team and individual statistics for the offending opponents shall remain intact and unaffected. In the case of team/individual student-athlete forfeitures at NAIA national championships, honors and placings will be vacated by the offending team/athlete and final results will not be adjusted.
Dordt University appealed the decision, requesting the opportunity to play in the quarterfinals due to the vacated decision. The appeal was denied.
While disappointed with the outcome, Dordt University respects the NAIA’s decision and will transition into the offseason and preparations for the end of the semester.
