University President Dave Frohnmayer met with Athletic Department personnel Monday to discuss the recruitment of convicted felon Rodney Woods, saying later that while he would have liked to have been included earlier in the process, he was ultimately pleased with the department’s efforts.
“Following a searching review of (athletic recruiting) policies and procedures … I am confident that administrative review will occur in future recruiting cases that may affect the reputation of the program and the University,” Frohnmayer said in a statement.
Woods, a two-time All-American junior cornerback, signed a letter of intent to join the University’s football program. But because of a felony record stemming from an assault in 2000, the Athletic Department can not accept Woods.
Although there is not a written policy prohibiting a felon from receiving an athletic scholarship, Athletic Director Bill Moos intervened during Woods’ recruitment, apparently stating the policy for the first time. For Woods to be admitted to the University’s athletic program, the charge would have to be erased.
“They can have a working policy, and quite frankly, I think it’s an appropriate course of action to take,” said Vice President for Administration Dan Williams, who oversees the Athletic Department. The University itself does not have a policy from barring felons from attending.
Meanwhile, a hearing was scheduled to possibly reduce Woods’ felony conviction to a misdemeanor. Football head coach Mike Bellotti and defensive coordinator Nick Aliotti submitted separate letters for the hearing, urging the judge to consider the progress Woods has made since the assault.
Woods was convicted of assaulting Kevin Walker on May 19, 2000, while two of his friends fatally injured another man, Christopher O’Leary. According to several reports, Woods initially confronted O’Leary but did not take part in the beating. When Walker tried to break up the melee, however, he too was assaulted.
Woods pleaded no contest to assault charges against Walker, and he later had murder and assault charges in O’Leary’s death dropped. Woods was sentenced to one year in jail, with time served for the 231 days already spent in custody.
Woods was originally supposed to play football at Fresno State University but could not because of his incarceration. After his release, Woods joined Fresno City College. Head coach Tony Caviglia said Woods was given a second chance in Fresno, and added that he “came out with flying colors.”
“He was in the wrong situation at the wrong time,” Caviglia said. “By no means is he a bad kid.”
Frohnmayer was unable to comment on the situation last week, but after meeting with Williams, Moos and Bellotti yesterday, he said he felt more comfortable speaking on the matter.
“The actions of the coaches show due diligence in investigating both the student’s character and his behavior during his time on probation,” Frohnmayer said.
Woods will be back in court Feb. 28 to find out whether the felony charge will be reduced. O’Leary’s parents and Walker are expected to speak at the hearing.