Robertson Dismissed from Iowa State Football Program

AMES, Iowa - Iowa State middle linebacker Matt Robertson has been dismissed from the Cyclone football program after testing positive for a banned nutritional supplement. The senior is an academic all-Big 12 honoree who was ISU's co-leader in tackles last season with 103 stops.

Statement from ISU student-athlete Matt Robertson:
"I take full personal responsibility for taking an over the counter supplement that is banned by the NCAA. I am paying a heavy price for a very bad decision, as I will never again wear an Iowa State uniform. I want to apologize to my teammates, my coaches and Iowa State fans. I hope my example will serve as a warning to others contemplating use of dietary supplements. I want to emphasize that the decision was mine and I accept the consequences."

Statement from Iowa State head football coach Dan McCarney about Matt Robertson:
"Matt Robertson is no longer a student-athlete in our football program. Ultimately, I have a deep feeling of sadness because Matt Robertson has always been a team player, an academic all-Big 12 performer who was as good in the classroom as he was on the field. He can still help the team by graduating. I'm confident he will. Let there be no doubt, however, his decision was unacceptable and he knew better than to use a supplement that is banned by the NCAA. Matt is paying the toughest penalty a student-athlete can face, not playing again for his school. His example as he carries on in the future should send a message to all young people that mistakes can have major consequences. We will continue to test our student-athletes frequently as a school, through the Big 12 and through the NCAA. We are not ending our relationship with Matt and will do everything we can to help him be a success after he leaves Iowa State University."