ICYMI: UW-Platteville Suspends Men's XC Team Following Hazing Allegations, Investigation Underway

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Last week, WKOW.com reported that the men's cross country team at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville, a Division Three program that resides in the Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (WIAC), has been temporarily suspended.

The suspension stems from an alleged hazing incident which is currently under investigation by the university. Per WKOW.com, Chancellor Tammy Evetovich was first made aware of the allegations earlier this month.

The report from WKOW.com explained that the men's cross country team was placed on temporary suspension on September 4th while Coach James Akita has been placed on paid administrative leave.

The women's cross country team at UW-Platteville will continue to operate as expected under the guidance of assistant coaches. No further details regarding the nature of the allegations or the investigation have been released.

“Our priority is to support students involved while ensuring this matter is investigated as thoroughly, fairly and promptly as possible,” said Melanie Platt-Gibson, a spokesperson for UW-Platteville.

The UW-Platteville's men's 2026 cross country roster has been wiped from TFRRS as well as from the school's athletics website.

Last fall, the Pioneer men claimed 19th place at the NCAA D3 XC Championships. Despite a few key losses from their 2025 lineup, the UW-Platteville men were expected to return to the national stage once more this fall.