August 20, 2003

SUDDERTH, WEST SUSPENDED FOR THREE GAMES;
SUDDERTH EXONERATED ON DRUG CHARGE

GREENVILLE, S.C. -- Furman University head football coach Bobby Lamb announced today that juniors Willis Sudderth and Isaac West have been suspended for the Paladins' first three games as part of disciplinary action by the university.

Sudderth, a tight end from Lilburn, Ga., and West, a split end from Augusta, Ga., were charged on July 31 with removing a tent from campus. In addition, Sudderth was charged with possession of a controlled substance after small amounts of marijuana were found in his vehicle.

The suspensions will keep Sudderth and West on the sideline for the Paladins' season opener against Elon (Aug. 30) and games against Clemson (Sept. 6) and Richmond (Sept. 20). In addition, both players will be required to perform community service and undergo counseling in Greenville County's first-offender program.

In addition, Furman has imposed sanctions on Sudderth and West. The university, however, is prohibited by federal law from releasing confidential information about students.

"The university has examined this matter thoroughly and we are satisfied that everyone has been held accountable for their actions," said Dr. Harry Shucker, Furman's vice president for student services. "Our on-campus investigation revealed that a third party -- a non-student athlete at Furman ­ was also involved, which exonerated Willis of the drug charge. The university's disciplinary action is entirely consistent with other student cases we've handled in the past."

Sudderth and West were suspended indefinitely by Lamb on Aug. 5 and have yet to practice with the team. They will work out with the squad for the first time on Wednesday but will be relegated to practice with the scout team, composed primarily of freshmen and reserves, until Sept. 22, according to Lamb.

"These suspensions are a result of unacceptable behavior by two young men who represent our football program and university community," said Lamb on Wednesday. "We expect our players to be model citizens and to conduct themselves in a manner that reflects the great trust placed in them by our university. I'm confident that lessons have been learned through this process and that these young men will work their way back into good standing."

A two-time All-Southern Conference selection, Sudderth caught eight passes for 103 yards and a touchdown in 2002, and West totaled 39 receptions for 708 yards and a team high seven touchdowns a year ago despite missing three games with a fractured collarbone.