Northridge Report Blames Fired Coach

Ron Ponciano broke a long list of NCAA rules as football coach at Cal State Northridge, including misappropriation of funds, overseeing a nonuniversity bank account and providing players with improper payments and meals, according to the findings of 2 1/2-month internal investigation, released Wednesday.

The 130-page report also charged Ponciano with condoning on-campus alcohol and tobacco use by coaches and disregarding instructions from a campus compliance officer to stop team barbecues.

University officials said they will seek $3,260 in restitution from Ponciano.

Ponciano, who was fired July 16 after one season as coach, reiterated a long-standing denial of wrongdoing.

“I would think they would have a little trouble with that,” Ponciano said of Northridge’s attempt at gaining repayment.

The report included a list of recommended self-imposed penalties--including a two-year probation for the program--to be submitted to the NCAA. The list also includes a reduction from 25 to 20 expense-paid recruiting visits during the 1999-2000 school year and a reduction from 63 to 61 scholarships during 2000-2001.

Northridge began practice for incoming players Wednesday.

Jeff Kearin, a former Matador assistant hired as interim coach three weeks ago, said he was satisfied with the penalties.

“We won’t get in trouble again,” Kearin said. “Let me be clear about that. I know the rules, and I know the rules well enough that if I don’t know a rule, I’m going to check.”