Group calls for Mark Emmert to meet with former Illinois players

An advocacy group for college athletes wants NCAA President Mark Emmert to meet with former Illinois student-athletes who have alleged they were mistreated by coaches.

Ramogi Huma, the executive director of the National College Players Association, sent a letter to the NCAA on Tuesday. Huma called on the NCAA to waive transfer rules requiring athletes to sit out a season and restore lost eligibility for current and former Illinois athletes who have played for coaching staffs accused of mistreatment.

Football coach Tim Beckman and some staff were accused of mistreating three former players. A university-hired law firm is investigating. Athletic director Mike Thomas is named in lawsuits alleging mistreatment by coaches in women's basketball and soccer.

The NCAA said Emmert had yet to receive the letter and would not comment.