Unfortunately, it can. NCAA considerations aside, if a student were to be charged and found responsible for academic misconduct at their college or university, depending on what the potential outcome would be, it can impact a student athlete's ability to participate with their sport or to continue forward with their sport, at least at that given moment in time. For example, if a student were to be found responsible for academic misconduct, and if the circumstances were sufficient to warrant a suspension or separation from studies, for example, that would definitely impact a person's ability to play his or her sport if it resulted in an expulsion or dismissal from school. Of course, that's going to affect a person's ability to play the sport potentially for the long term.
The stakes are high for any student accused of academic misconduct, especially a college athlete or student athlete who has additional concerns yet. Being accused of academic misconduct is incredibly serious, you should not go at it alone, you should let your parents know what's going on. You should not engage with the school without taking the necessary precautions.
Having an experienced attorney advisor will help you best understand your rights through the process and can help you best understand and navigate the process, they should be involved as early as possible in the case.
