Iowa State to appeal $25K Big 12 fine for field storming

Updated Mar. 4, 2020 3:57 p.m. ET

AMES, Iowa (AP) — Iowa State President Wendy Wintersteen said Tuesday the university will appeal a $25,000 fine levied by the Big 12 Conference for violating postgame celebration policies when fans stormed the field following a home win over West Virginia last weekend.

The league told Iowa State that Commissioner Bob Bowlsby had determined university officers did not take the "appropriate precautions to create a safe environment" for the Mountaineers. West Virginia coach Dana Holgorsen was critical of school efforts, calling the scene "unprofessional" and suggesting his players were not in a "safe place."

Iowa State says it reviewed the actions taken by its officers. The Cyclones contend they followed all postgame celebration policies and had taken "several additional measures" to make the situation safer.