The University of South Wales has confirmed that its men's rugby union sides will remain shut down on the back of allegations of "abusive behaviour", despite South Wales Police ending any investigations into any criminal allegations.
The USW Students' Union revealed last month that several students had been suspended from the university as a result of allegations made against members of the men's rugby club.
South Wales Police were initially involved in the probe to investigate whether there were any criminal charges to be brought.
However, they have now decided to end their investigation with no charges brought, although the university will now launch its own official inquiry.
University of South Wales shuts down all four men's rugby teams as police investigate allegations
A spokesperson for the university told Wales Online on Thursday: “After it was brought to the attention of the University of South Wales (USW) that some individuals involved in competitive men’s student rugby may have engaged in abusive behaviour, other misconduct, and behaviour incompatible with that expected of all members of the University community, the University is now investigating under its own procedures.
“A number of students have been suspended from the University and all competitive men's student rugby activity is on hold while the concerns are investigated.
“USW holds members of the University community to the highest standards of personal behaviour and we have zero tolerance of behaviour that falls below that standard.”
A statement from the USW Student's Union confirmed that the ban on competitive men's rugby would remain in place pending the findings of that internal investigation, adding that they would be working closely with the university until that probe is completed.
It read: "We have been informed by South Wales Police that they do not intend to take further action against individual members of the Men's Rugby team. We understand the University is now undertaking its own investigation into the matter.
"We will be proactive in working with the University to enable them to do this as quickly, thoroughly, and fairly as possible.
"It would be remiss of us to publish a date for activities to commence without knowing what will happen as a consequence of the University investigation, and any subsequent recommendations. Therefore, the suspension of Men's Rugby activities will remain in place until further notice."
The women's rugby team and the university's rugby league side are not implicated in the allegations, nor are the members of USW coaching staff.
