MSU Coach Ford Faces Allegations

KOLR-TV is reporting that Missouri State University’s head men’s basketball coach, Dana Ford, is facing accusations of sexual misconduct.

The allegations stem from an incident at a golf tournament in September at the Silo Ridge Golf Club in Bolivar.

An incident report from the Polk County Sheriff’s Office says the victim was working a beverage cart.

The Polk County Sheriff’s Office says this is an on-going investigation.

Missouri State University has issued a statement about the allegations, saying “The university was made aware of the allegations against men’s basketball coach Dana Ford in September.

We have taken these allegations seriously.

Given the nature of the allegations, they were immediately assigned to the university’s Office for Institutional Equity and Compliance (OIEC) For investigation.

Following an initial investigation, the claims were unsubstantiated based on available evidence.

The university has no further comment at this time.”

Coach Dana Ford said in a statement, “I felt compelled to respond to the serious allegations made today and to correct some factual errors,”

Ford said. “The golf tournament mentioned in the article took place last September.

During that tournament, I was on a team with three other players.

None of those participants corroborated the allegation referenced because it didn’t happen.”

“The university investigated this situation when it was reported,” Ford continued.

“The university found no evidence to support these false allegations.

I participated fully with that investigation.

These false allegations are particularly disturbing in light of the fact that my wife and I have spent much of our lives fighting domestic violence against women and children through our nonprofit Rebound Foundation.”

“The goal of this statement is to provide my position,” said Ford.

“Missouri State University and my wife stand with me.

My hope is that those who support Missouri State Athletics will continue to support the outstanding athletes whom I have the privilege of coaching.”