THE NCAA has identified one of the persons allegedly responsible for the attack on one of the referees who worked the opening day match pitting the College of St. Benilde Blazers against the Cardinals at the Mall of Asia Arena.
After an initial investigation conducted by the NCAA Management Committee, the league was able to identify one persons involved in the incident with the help of Mapua, as per a statement released by the league on Tuesday.
READ Alleged mauling of referee reported to police, says NCAA
Mapua has banned the person from participating in any of its school events while the ManCom continues its investigation into the sorry incident.
The ManCom though still refused to name the personalities involved in the mauling episode that took place shortly after the Blazers came from behind to nip the Cardinals, 78-65, at the MOA Arena.
As recounted by the game official, around four persons were involved in the endgame fracas as the referees were on their way to their dugout.
The referee suffered bruises on his face, according to ManCom Chairman Herc Callanta who was able to talk to the game official.
The referee had already undergone a medico legal procedure and reported the incident to the police.
This developed as the NCAA also tightened security and undertook measures to further ensure the safety of its student-athletes, coaches, game officials, staff and the audience during its games.
In the same statement, the ManCom added it shall be guided by the association’s Manual of Operations in handling this concern and shall impose the appropriate penalty within its rules to ensure that those responsible are held accountable.
It is coordinating with the SM Mall of Asia Management to investigate how the incident unfolded; the security protocols observed and breached within the venue, if any; and, possible additional measures which may be implemented to ensure the safety of everyone during games.
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