COACH: Apology to community

It is with deep regret that the NIC Men’s Basketball program has placed the institution, community and athletic department in an unprecedented situation. As the head coach of Men’s Basketball program, I take responsibility for events within the program that resulted in the NWAC sanctions. I can assure you any violations were not intentional or deliberate, rather they were intended to benefit our student-athletes and contribute to their success in the classroom, on the court, and in the community.

NIC athletics is rooted deep in my family and me. It is disappointing to know that my actions within the program have led to negative comments about North Idaho College, NIC Athletics, and my current and former student-athletes. For 15 years, me and my family have worked hard to uphold the tradition of excellence that NIC athletics and Men’s Basketball was built on. The most alarming part throughout this process is the negative impact it’s having on our student-athletes. Student success, academic and personal, and creating the best possible experience for our student-athletes is most important within our program. The overall success of the program has been built on the foundation of student-athletes who achieve both on and off the court.

As the leader of the Men’s Basketball team, it is my job to teach young men the importance of character and integrity. It is my goal moving forward to do everything within my power to move NIC basketball through these sanctions, and continue to help young men reach their goals both academically and athletically. This will be done in a manner that is representative of the values of this institution and the North Idaho community.

My deepest apologies go out to the NIC Board of Trustees, President MacLennan, administration, coaches, other members of the NIC community and most importantly our unbelievable student-athletes. I look forward to working together to improve the overall reputation of the Men’s Basketball program, as well as the NIC athletics department.

COREY SYMONS

NIC head basketball coach