Schools to decide whether to use American Indian mascots, nicknames

.c The Associated Press

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) - For at least the next two years, the NCAA will let schools and conferences decide for themselves whether to use American Indian mascots, nicknames or logos.

The NCAA's executive committee recommended Tuesday that schools conduct a ``self-analysis'' to determine whether the Indian depictions are offensive.

The committee decided against a proposal to eliminate all references to American Indian mascot names, nicknames and logos in NCAA publications and announcements.

The NCAA's Minority Opportunities and Interests Committee will develop material that, if approved by the executive committee, would be sent to schools in September 2004.

The minority interests committee began a study last year on the use of American Indian nicknames and mascots.

Among the schools that changed their nicknames in the past were St. John's (from Redmen to Red Storm) and Miami of Ohio (from Redskins to RedHawks).

08/12/03 15:32 EDT