Friday, October 24, 2008

Siena suspends Burrell

It was just 11 days ago that Siena senior guard Shondaya Burrell was called the "face of the program" for Siena women's basketball by head coach Gina Castelli.

Today, the "face of the program" was suspended immediately and indefinitely for conduct "violating College policy."

“This is unfortunate, but it is the right thing to do,” said Director of Athletics John D’Argenio in a email on Friday. “Suspending someone from something that they deeply enjoy doing is not a decision that is made lightly, but actions have consequences. Part of our mission is to teach our students responsibility and accountability.”

Burrell averaged 13.9 points and 6.2 rebounds last season and seemed ready to take over this season as the Saints top player until this.

“We have always talked to our team about the importance of making good choices and winning the right way,” Castelli said. “Although we are greatly disappointed, I’m confident we will move forward, learn a valuable lesson and enjoy a successful season.”

With the season opener, Friday, Nov. 14 against Syracuse three weeks from tonight, that leaves fifth-year senior Heather Stec the team's leading returning scorer at 7.5 points per game and then a major drop off to junior Sarah Fullmer and her 3.4 points per game in 2007-08.

This also leads a gaping hole at the guard position.

This isn't good for a team that went 11-18 last season and was already trying to fill in a couple of key spots.

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