The dismissal of a student from the women’s tennis team moved several faculty and students to meet Monday in a show of support and to plan legal moves to address the matter.

Italina Kirknis was removed from the tennis team following charges of negative and unsportsmanlike behavior.

A letter signed by Athletic Director Terry Wanless states Kirknis was dismissed from the team for the use of profanity during tennis matches and lack of respect shown towards elderly tennis players at a charity event.

In a written statement dated Dec. 5, Kirknis denied any charges made against her by tennis head coach Bill Campbell.

“I reject the findings of this investigation and I am in the process of calling for a university wide hearing,” said Kirknis.

Women’s Studies Professor Michelle Matisons is supporting Kirknis through the appeal and complaint processes.

“The university makes it very difficult to navigate through procedures,” said Matisons. “It took us a month to get written notification of her dismissal.”

Matisons along with Women’s Studies Professor Rita Cameron Wedding and Criminal Justice Professor Cecil Canton are seeking legal defense for a possible lawsuit against the university.

The letter from university officials states that Kirknis will be allowed to retain her scholarship through the end of the Spring 2003 semester even though she will not be allowed to play on the tennis team.