Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: SATURDAY, October 14, 1995 TAG: 9510170115
SECTION: SPORTS PAGE: B6 EDITION: METRO
SOURCE: STAFF REPORT
DATELINE: LENGTH: Medium
Southern Conference officials have intimated that the constitution could be changed to allow the three schools membership, but no such move will be made until the schools show an interest in committing to the league.
``If they don't have an interest, there's no use in doing it,'' Southern Conference commissioner Wright Waters said.
The three schools, which currently play football in the Yankee Conference, met Wednesday to discuss a move, but have not revealed which way they are leaning beyond the fact that they will stay together whatever they decide.
Apparently, the next move is the Virginia trio's to make.
``We're right where we've always been,'' Waters said. ``We need to talk, but the ball's in their court.''
League officials have stressed that the Southern Conference will not pursue the three schools unless UR, JMU and William and Mary show an interest.
``If they're looking for a strong league, we can offer that,'' Waters said. ``If they want to compete in a championship game, we can offer that. If they want a stable league, we can offer that.
``But we have not heard from them lately.''
Waters said he spoke with UR athletic director and Yankee Conference executive director Chuck Boone in July. At that time, Boone said he was unsure of the three schools' plans but that they were looking at the future of their football programs.
Presidents of the Southern Conference's member schools will hold their regular monthly meeting Nov.7 and 8. Richmond, JMU and William and Mary are expected to have made a decision by that time.
by CNB