The Saginaw Chippewa Tribe is hopeful the Central Michigan University "Chippewas" will gain an exemption from the NCAA's mascot policy, a spokesperson said.

Tribal spokesperson Joe Sowmick spoke to the NCAA by phone to discuss CMU's appeal. The tribe has passed several resolutions in support of "Chippewas."

Sowmick said the NCAA called to verify CMU's report on the nickname. He said the NCAA didn't give a timetable for a decision.

CMU is among four schools that have appealed their inclusion in a policy that bans Indian imagery during post-season tournaments. The Florida State University "Seminoles" have already won an exemption.

Get the Story:
Chippewa tribe voices concern over NCAA ban (Central Michigan Life 9/2)

NCAA Announcement:
NCAA Executive Committee Issues Guidelines for Use of Native American Mascots at Championship Events (August 5, 2005)

Relevant Links:
Saginaw Chippewa Tribe - http://www.sagchip.org
Central Michigan University - http://www.cmich.edu
NCAA Minority Opportunities and Interests Committee - http://www1.ncaa.org/eprise/main/
membership/governance/assoc-wide/moic/index.html
National Coalition on Racism in Sports and Media - http://www.aimovement.org/ncrsm

Related Stories:
CMU cites tribe's support in appeal for 'Chippewas' (8/31)
CMU preparing to appeal decision on 'Chippewas' (08/25)
CMU to cite support of tribe for 'Chippewas' nickname (8/23)
Saginaw Chippewa Tribe calls policy 'unacceptable' (08/11)
NCAA announces revised Indian mascot policy (8/8)
Mixed reaction to change in use of mascots (8/8)
NCAA committee to take up Indian mascots (8/3)
Company removes 'Chippewa' image from video game (07/28)
NCAA committee won't call for ban on Indian mascots (6/28)
Saginaw Chippewa Tribe supports CMU nickname (04/13)
Michigan tribe donates to college's PBS station (02/25)
University corrects Indian tuition waiver policy (10/29)
Video game features fans in 'Chippewa' dress (10/25)
Michigan tribe working on school tuition waiver (04/26)
Mich. university interviewing four for Native post (04/07)
Mich. school ignoring treaty on Indian education (03/22)
University president revives Indian advisory panel (03/05)
University narrowing field for Native program director (02/27)