AUSTIN (AP) — The University of Texas has suspended its spirit team for six years following an investigation into hazing at a retreat the night before a new member was fatally wounded in a car crash while heading back to Austin.
The Texas Cowboys fire “Smokey the Cannon” at the school’s home football games.
The Austin American-Statesman reports that the UT dean of students’ office authorized the suspension on Wednesday, along with a two-year probationary period after being reinstated.
A report says new members were forced to drink a gallon of milk and eat cat food during the retreat.
The report says one member was pressured to bite the head off a live hamster.
The Cowboys can either accept the sanction, appeal or ask for a formal hearing.
