Big 12 denies Iowa State’s appeal of $25,000

Iowa+State+fans+storm+the+field+after+the+Cyclones+defeat+West+Virginia+30-14.

Iowa State fans storm the field after the Cyclones defeat West Virginia 30-14.

Trevor Holbrook

Iowa State will have to pay a $25,000 fine after its fans rushed the field at Jack Trice Stadium following the Cyclones’ 30-14 win over then-No. 6 West Virginia.

“We have a duty to provide a safe game environment,” said Big 12 Conference Commissioner Bob Bowlsby in a release, announcing the fine and public reprimand. “The Iowa State Department of Athletics has a written event-management policy that was not thoroughly implemented, and was unsuccessful in ensuring the safety and security of all visiting team game participants. 

“Although the Big 12 Conference does not currently have a policy prohibiting spectators from entering playing areas for post-game celebrations, it is of utmost importance that home-game management provide adequate security measures for our student-athletes, coaches, game officials and spectators.”

Iowa State announced its decision to appeal the fine shortly after.

On Friday, the Big 12 decided to deny the appeal and stick with the original fine.

“Our institution takes the safety and welfare of all student-athletes, officials, and fans very seriously and we will continue to review and refine our safety protocols based upon our actual experiences,” said Iowa State University President Wendy Wintersteen in a release.