Feb. 18, 2005

The Southeastern Conference announced today that the University of South Carolina will be fined $5,000 for a violation of the league's access to competition area policy.

The policy, which went into effect on Dec. 1, states that "access to competition areas shall be limited to participating student-athletes, coaches, officials, support personnel and properly-credentialed individuals at all time. For the safety of participants and spectators alike, at no time before, during or after a contest shall spectators be permitted to enter the competition area."

The violation occurred following South Carolina's 73-61 win over No. 3 Kentucky on Feb. 15 as fans entered the competition area of the Colonial Center.

"This policy is designed to create a safe environment for everyone who participates and attends our athletic contests," said Slive. "I understand the exuberance of the moment but the security and protection of our student-athletes, coaches, officials and fans is our primary concern."

The policy, approved by all 12 SEC institutions, imposes financial penalties for violations in the sports of football, men's and women's basketball, at the discretion of the Commissioner. Institutional financial packages range from $5,000 for a first offense to fines of up to $25,000 for a second offense and up to $50,000 for a third and subsequent offense.

If South Carolina does not have a violation of this policy for the next three years (prior to Feb. 15, 2008), the subsequent violation shall be considered a second offense.

USC ATHLETIC DIRECTOR MIKE MCGEE STATEMENT:

"The rule is the rule and we support the rule. We have addressed the situation and we will do a better job of keeping the students and the fans off the court from this point forwards."