Saturday, Feb. 18, 2006

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Aussie Millions runner-up may lose spot on college golf team

By Lianne Elias

Bobby Neary, the 21-year-old Sonoma State University student who took second place at the 2006 Aussie Millions poker championship in Melbourne, Australia, in January, may no longer be eligible to compete on the Sonoma State men's golf team because he violated NCAA (National Collegiate Athletic Association) endorsement rules when he wore attire provided by PartyPoker.com at the final table. Interestingly, his participating and winnings in the tournament did not violate NCAA gambling guidelines.

Neary was declared "athletically ineligible" this past Tuesday after his university reported the violation to the NCAA. Sonoma State athletic director Bill Fusco said the school will now petition the association for Neary's reinstatement, and revealed that the business major is allowed to practice with the team until a final verdict is reached.

"We're hopeful that it will be granted," Fusco said. "He's an outstanding student-athlete and a key member of our intercollegiate golf team."

Neary qualified for the Aussie Millions at PartyPoker.com and took home $520,000 for his second place finish. His acceptance of the PartyPoker.com prize package was awarded on condition he wear its merchandise while participating in the event.

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