NCAA Declares Llopis Ineligible

As if the Crimson did not have enough problems, the National Collegiate Athletic Association yesterday denied Harvard's appeal for reinstatement of junior college transfer Arturo Llopis's eligibility.

The NCAA initially revoked Llopis's eligibility after reports that he had played for and indirectly received money from a Spanish professional team, thus forfeiting his eligibility under NCAA rules.

Llopis was visibly upset at the ruling.

"I am very angry with the NCAA," Llopis said.

The difference in the definition of amateur status between Spain and America initially led to the dispute.

Llopis's professional team heavily subsidized his education at the University of Barcelona. While this is legal in Spain, it is illegal in the NCAA.

He Meant Well

Harvard is arguing that Llopis's motives were pure.

"I did not sign a contract and I did not take an agent," Llopis said. "I did everyhting I could to remain an amateur.

"They have the rules, but I don't think they apply in this case," Llopis said.

Re-Appeal?

Harvard will wait until the NCAA gives its complete response before deciding whether or not to re-appeal.

"It's not a closed door yet," Harvard sports information director John Veneziano said.