Thursday, September 07, 2006

All I Ask Is That They HURRY!!

OXFORD, Miss. – Additional information regarding the eligibility of Jerrell Powe to play football at the University of Mississippi was presented to the NCAA today (Thursday), but neither university officials nor attorneys representing Powe expect a decision today.
“In light of the volume of new documents that must be thoroughly reviewed, we don’t expect to receive a final ruling on his eligibility today,” said university attorney Lee Tyner. “We are hopeful to have a decision by September 15.”
An official for the NCAA said the organization intends to move quickly.
“The NCAA is in the process of evaluating the additional information provided by Jerrell Powe and the University of Mississippi. It is the NCAA’s intention to come to a decision as quickly as possible,” said Bob Williams, NCAA spokesperson.
Even if Powe is declared eligible by the NCAA next week, it is not yet clear when the 18-year-old Wayne County athlete would be able to play. Tyner said that would be a matter for university administrators to decide.
Powe’s attorney James Carroll of Jackson said he is confident of the outcome of the dispute.
“Jerrell Powe has provided full documentation addressing all the issues,” said Carroll, “and is optimistic that an objective evaluation will confirm that he meets NCAA eligibility standards.”