When the Duke men’s lacrosse team canceled its season amid sexual assault allegations, it affected the entire scope of NCAA lacrosse.
The Blue Devils began the season as one of the favorites to win the national title. When they lost to the Terps March 4, they were ranked No. 1.
Although it will probably take some time for the stigma to wear off, the on-field landscape of Duke lacrosse could be back to normal next year.
A Duke committee, which was charged with investigating the school’s lacrosse program, recommended Monday that the team resume play next season.
The committee found that even though there has been an “alarming” pattern of misconduct by players in recent years, it does not warrant suspension of the program.
Several weeks ago, when discussing Duke’s absence from the ACC tournament, Terp coach Dave Cottle said it would be a tremendous blow to the conference if Duke didn’t play next season.
Virginia coach Dom Starsia said his undefeated season has been different without the Blue Devils.
“The events of this lacrosse season have taken some pressure off performing on the field,” he said. “I feel like I personally have been very distracted by the things going on in the game this season.”
Though it was granted an exception this season, the ACC would not be able to hold a tournament next year with fewer than four teams.
