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December 6, 2012

Integrity in college sports

The Norman Transcript

NORMAN — Ross Parmley was a rising star in the world of athletics. He was hired away from Norman schools to direct the football operations at the University of Tulsa. He later was promoted to interim athletic director and then to athletic director.

The 39-year-old Parmley was terminated this week by the university. He was identified — not charged — in a gambling indictment made public late last month. He had admitted to FBI agents that he had placed bets on college and professional sports up until 2010.

Having an interest in sports wagering is not a crime, but that interest combined with a job as a university athletic administrator violates NCAA regulations. The relationship between college athletic administrators and betting has been scrutinized for many years. Allowing such activity threatens the integrity of college sports.

Mr. Parmley, according to published reports, signed off on a pledge that he had no knowledge of any NCAA violations. His attorney has said he did not bet on Tulsa sports and was cooperating with investigators.

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