LEXINGTON, Ky. -- The University of Kentucky has fired its four cheerleading coaches after an investigation finds inappropriate conduct by members of the squad, including hazing, alcohol use and public nudity.
The three-month investigation found:
- During a team retreat at Lake Cumberland, some cheerleaders performed gymnastics routines that including hurling their teammates from a dock into the water while either topless or bottomless.
- Coaches allowed cheerleading alumni to bring boats and alcohol to the retreat, where some cheerleaders were partially naked and/or drinking while riding on boats.Several squad members became so intoxicated they required medical treatment.
- During a cheerleading camp in Tennessee, some cheerleaders were directed by other members of the squad to perform lewd chants and wear outfits that did not include underwear.
The investigation found no evidence of sexual assault or sexual misconduct during these trips.
The school fired head coach Jomo Thompson and three assistant coaches. No cheerleaders were dismissed from the squad.
The investigation also found lax oversight and poor judgment by T. Lynn Williamson, who served as the UK cheerleading program's advisor for decades. Williamson retired days after learning of the investigation.
UK’s cheerleading program has won 24 national championships in the past 35 years.
Photo Credit: University of Kentucky
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