Vandals To Report Ncaa Violation

The University of Idaho will self-report an NCAA violation that occurred following the Vandals’ football win in the Humanitarian Bowl on Dec. 30.

Defensive line coach Dionicio Monarrez Jr., who was fired by UI earlier this week, posted bail for two UI players who were jailed after a postgame celebration got out of hand in downtown Boise.

According to NCAA rules, an institutional employee may not provide a student-athlete with extra benefits or services, which includes posting bail.

Freshman defensive tackle Wil Beck, a Central Valley grad, was charged with underage drinking, resisting and obstructing an officer and disorderly conduct. Offensive lineman Keith Cosseboom, a Rogers High grad, was charged with fighting.

UI athletic director Mike Bohn confirmed a violation had occurred, but declined to identify specifics.

“We will self-report it to the NCAA,” Bohn said.

Earlier this year, Idaho self-reported an NCAA violation when it learned defensive lineman Ma’o Niko was playing even though his eligibility had expired.

According to UI, Niko failed to mention he played at L.A. Harbor College in 1991 on forms filed with Idaho, the Big West and the NCAA. NCAA rules say an athlete has five years to play four seasons.

Niko played in two non-conference games this season.

Idaho hasn’t learned what, if any, punishment it faces from the NCAA.

Thomas suits up

Idaho running back Joel Thomas, the co-offensive player of the year in the Big West, will play in the East-West Shrine Classic Saturday at Stanford, Calif. ESPN will televise the game at 1 p.m.

“The coaches have been working on it, sending in film and then I got the call (Friday night),” said Thomas, who is at his father’s home near San Francisco. “There’s 80-85 players on both teams, so I feel like I’ll get a lot of playing time whether it’s running the ball or on special teams.”

Thomas hopes to showcase his talents for NFL scouts. Players begin practice Monday in San Jose leading up to the game.

“I remember when I was a freshman, Doug Nussmeier couldn’t come to our awards banquet because he was getting ready for this game. Back then, you dream about things like that,” Thomas said. “I’m just thankful to have this opportunity.”