Larger text
Smaller text
Print
E-mail
Penn State fines women's coach $10,000
JoAnne Klimovich Harrop can be reached via e-mail or at 412-320-7889.
Portland was fined after an investigation by Penn State's Office of Affirmative Action found enough evidence to substantiate a claim that Portland discriminated against former player Jennifer Harris. A news release from the university stated Portland created a "hostile, intimidating and offensive environment" because of Harris' perceived sexual orientation.
Portland didn't accept the fine lightly. Reading from a prepared statement at a news conference yesterday at Penn State, she said the process the university used in its investigation was flawed.
"I believe that the process failed to fairly consider and weigh all of the relevant information provided or which could have been provided," Portland said. "I want to state that it has always been my belief that all actions taken, with respect to the player bringing claims against me, were basketball related and basketball related only and were not based on sexual orientation, actual or perceived.
"I believe that those decisions were both proper and justified as being in the best interests of every member of our entire program."
Harris, who sat out this season after transferring to James Madison, said in a statement she was disappointed by the results of the investigation.
"Penn State did not take the allegations seriously and does not appear interested in solving the underlying problem," she said.
A federal lawsuit filed by Harris is scheduled for mediation May 15 in Harrisburg.
Portland, accompanied by her husband, John, and her assistant coaches, didn't take questions from reporters.
In addition to the fine, Portland received a letter of reprimand, which will become part of her permanent file. If she is found in further violation of the university's discrimination policy, she will be dismissed, school officials said.
Portland, who has a career win-loss record of 678-249 and has led Penn State to 21 NCAA Tournament appearances, has a contract that expires in 2009.
Portland, who has been at Penn State for 26 seasons, also has to participate in a professional development program devoted to diversity. The report from the Office of Affirmative Action recommended a one-game suspension in the fall. Instead, Penn State president Graham Spanier opted for an immediate fine.
Also, there will be NCAA-mandated exit interviews of Penn State players for three years, conducted by a member of the staff of the Office of Affirmative Action and a school administrator.
The report stated there was no evidence to substantiate Harris' claim of racial discrimination.
Harris' attorney Karen Doering said Portland was in a state of denial because she didn't acknowledge any wrongdoing.
"This is just a slap on the wrist," Doering said. "The university is responsible for creating Rene Portland and allowing her to get away with this. Jennifer Harris had to sit out an entire season. It would not be unreasonable for Rene Portland to do the same.
"I would have been more optimistic if there wasn't the same reckless arrogance. She gets special treatment. I know she has done many good things for women's basketball, but that does not make up for this."
Norma O'Rourke, mother of freshman point guard Brianne O'Rourke, said she and her daughter are happy Portland is returning.
"I feel bad that this disrupted the team," Norma O'Rourke said. "It is a shame what (Portland) went through. I am glad she is still here. She has the support of so many people."
More College Sports headlines
- Clark earning Heisman attention
- Ohio State has lost six vs. higher-ranked teams
- Penn State student group pulls shirts mocking Terrelle Pryor
- Front lines could decide PSU-Ohio State
- Pryor wants 'Terrelle Cryer' T-shirt
- PSU, OSU a measuring stick
- Penn State safety deals with injury
- Penn State coach Joe Paterno's take
