Thank You University of Iowa!

For the most part, I have held my tongue on issues related to the University of North Dakota's nickname (at least on here).  But recently I have become increasingly agitated by the continued arguments about the Fighting Sioux nickname.  When we moved here 4 years ago from Sioux Falls, SD I knew that it was a controversial issue, but I had no idea how divisive it really was...and has been for some time.  Recently, the state legislature overturned a November law that erased the nickname.  So with the nickname now in effect once again, the NCAA has come with sanctions, UND risks not being fully accepted by their new conference, and has taken a further kick in the teeth by my home state's university.  University of Iowa has uninvited UND to its April track meet.  I applaud their decision.  I hope to see more of the same from other schools siding with the NCAA as pressure mounts risking UND's precious hockey teams perhaps public opinion will shift as well.  I do lament the cost this takes upon the student athlete.  As a former athlete I know the amount of hours and commitment one puts into a sport and to have that taken away seems unfair.  But until this issue of the nickname is settled, with the nickname being done away with, expect more sanctions and more invitations revoked.  I for one am thankful for U of Iowa and their determined stance.  It's not hard to do, but it makes me proud to be an Iowan.