Terrapins football linebacker Lukas Foreman has been suspended one year for violating the student-athlete code of conduct – the third suspension athletics department officials have announced this week.
Officials announced Foreman’s suspension in a news release yesterday. The statement came two days after officials announced men’s basketball players Terrell Stoglin and Mychal Parker faced one year suspensions.
The news release did not specify why Foreman was suspended. According to court records, he was charged with criminal possession of drug paraphernalia Jan. 16 and issued a citation, but officials did not say whether his previous charge was connected to his suspension.
University President Wallace Loh said he was disappointed by the announcement.
“Our overriding concern with all of our students, including student-athletes, is their success. I’m far less concerned about the perception of athletics at Maryland and the university,” Loh said. “For these student-athletes, playing their sport is everything. That’s their identity. That’s why they came here and we want them to be successful.”
Foreman’s attorney, Leonard Stamm, declined to comment on Foreman’s previous charge or the suspension.
Stoglin reportedly failed three drug tests leading to his suspension, according to a Washington Times report, and he declared for the NBA Draft. Parker announced his intent to transfer last month.
“Being a University of Maryland student-athlete carries a tremendous honor and responsibility,” Athletic Director Kevin Anderson said in a statement. “As much as we appreciate the effort this young man gave to the program this season, he was unable to live up to that responsibility. We’re certainly disappointed, but hope that he will use this as a learning experience.”
Some students said the suspensions are frustrating in light of the attention and funds athletes receive.
“All they have to do is follow certain policies, and the fact that they can’t do that just shows that they don’t take it as seriously as they should,” said sophomore community health major Jillian Lansey.
Others said the recent incidents could reflect poorly upon the athletics department.
“I think alumni and people who are really involved in athletics will be offended by it and take it to heart,” freshman kinesiology major Erin Grady said. “I’m a fan; I think it’s unfortunate.”
But others said they do not think the incidents are out of the ordinary.
“Not to paint these communities too broadly, but I think that’s common enough among athletes and college-aged people generally,” said sophomore anthropology major Andrew Brown. “I don’t think that would make too many waves outside the university.”
Foreman, a Naples, Fla., native, redshirted his freshman season and recently made the transition from defensive back to linebacker in spring practices. He will miss all of the upcoming season.
Staff writers Teddy Amenabar and Lauren Kirkwood contributed to this report.
vitale@umdbk.com
