Former WSU baseball aide reaffirms stance after NCAA ruling

Shelley Wombacher reiterated that she did not knowingly violate NCAA rules in a statement released to The Eagle on Friday by her lawyer.

Wombacher, former administrative assistant for the Wichita State baseball program, also apologized for the pain caused by the NCAA investigation into impermissible apparel benefits for athletes.

On Thursday, the NCAA handed the baseball program one year of probation, public reprimand and a $5,000 fine. WSU plans to appeal the NCAA’s ruling to vacate wins, perhaps as many as 74, from the 2012 and 2013 seasons.

The probation does not affect eligibility for postseason play.

Wombacher administered a VIP account that players used to purchase non-baseball apparel, a violation of NCAA rules. The NCAA faulted WSU for a lack of education and failing to implement a recommended change in its report. The report stated that Wombacher did not intentionally violate NCAA rules.

“After reviewing the NCAA Division 1 Committee of Infractions’ findings and ruling yesterday I am full of emotions,” her statement said. “During my tenure at Wichita State Athletics, both in Student Services and as Administrative Assistant for the historic baseball program, I put my heart and soul into my profession, the coaches, and the many student-athletes that came through my door.

“As I stated during the early stages of the investigation into the alleged improper benefits provided to student-athletes, the Committee on Infractions expressed their strong belief that I was clear of knowingly and purposefully breaking NCAA rules and putting our program and student-athletes at harm. I apologize for the pain the process and findings have caused the Wichita State community. The NCAA stressed the importance of proper education and I am glad that Wichita State is taking proper steps in addressing their concerns.

“As I begin to put this behind me, I ask that you respect my privacy. I want to thank Coach Stephenson for his support through this process, my family, friends and many alumni that have reached out to me during this difficult time. I am in full support of Wichita State appealing the decision on vacating of wins and I look forward to the results.”

This story was originally published January 30, 2015 at 5:31 PM with the headline "Former WSU baseball aide reaffirms stance after NCAA ruling."