N.D. lawmakers mull fate of Fighting Sioux nickname

The University of North Dakota's president and athletics director say the school will be better off if it gets rid of its Fighting Sioux nickname.

On Tuesday members of the North Dakota House and Senate education committees may decide if they want to go along.

During this week's special legislative session, lawmakers are deciding whether to repeal a law that says UND has to keep its Fighting Sioux nickname and American Indian head logo.

At a hearing, UND President Robert Kelley says he's spent about half his time on the issue since he became president three years ago.

Athletics director Brian Faison says if UND keeps the name it could become a school without a conference. Faison says there aren't enough independent schools to fill out a sports schedule.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

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