Long gone? Dismissed Cyclone could wrestle again

AMES – The book on Andrew Long's wrestling career at Iowa State may not be finished just yet.

Coach Kevin Jackson said this week the 125-pound NCAA runner-up last season as a redshirt freshman – booted from the team last week for repeated code of conduct violations – could return to the Cyclones a year from now if he gets his personal life in order.

Jackson allowed Long to address teammates and some younger guys on campus participating in ISU's wrestling camp.

“He's a good kid. He knows he made some mistakes,” Jackson said.

“If he decides to remain in school and do some things that are necessary that shows he is on the right path, I don't think our athletic department will close the door on him. I don't know that for sure. I would think we are trying to keep people here that want to be here. (With Long) I think that is the case.”

Jackson didn't say what the final straw was in dismissing Long, who went 27-7 in his only season of competition.

The Creston native has a pair of alcohol-related arrests on his record, the latest occurring in April when he tried to run from police officers and was charged with public intoxication and possession of a fake ID.

Last August, Long also was caught with a fake ID in a Campustown bar and had to be subdued with a stun gun after apparently fighting with arresting officers. He turned 21 on June 2.

Jackson hinted those problems led to Long's downfall.

“Socially is what ended up hurting him,” Jackson said. “We've tried to help him.

“By not allowing him to continue on the team I'm trying to help him understand he has to recognize socially he has to get control of his life. From there he can accomplish any of his athletic goals.”

Long sat out as a true freshman. To transfer he would have to sit out a season per NCAA rules and have two remaining.

Jackson said Long could regain his scholarship money and use that to pay for tuition if he decides to remain in Ames. The coach said Long is leaning in that direction.

“He loves Iowa State,” Jackson said. “He wants to be here and we want him here. Unfortunately now we have to work through some of the issues that have surrounded him to allow him to get back here. It won't happen this year.”

One thing that is certain is that Chris Bono won't be around to coach Long or any other Cyclone.

Bono said Wednesday he was leaving his assistant coaching position to pursue opportunities within and outside the sport.

“I have been in wrestling a long time,” Bono said in a statement. “I am looking at options and considering what is best for my family.  They are my first priority.”

Bono coached under Bobby Douglas at ISU for nine seasons before becoming the head coach at Tennessee-Chattanooga in 2006. He spent three seasons there and returned last season to be Jackson's lead assistant.

Bono was a three-time All-American at Iowa State, winning the NCAA 150-pound championship as a senior in 1996.