2aDays Logo
  • Sign Up
  • Log In
  • Subscribe
  • Ratings
  • Coaches & Staff
  • Colleges
  • Campus Visits
  • Facilities
  • Blog
    • Blog Home
    • NCAA Rules & Regulations
    • College Sports Recruting
      • College Sports Recruiting
      • Applying to Schools
      • Deciding on a School
      • Scholarships
      • Approaching Coaches
      • Highlight Reels
      • Recruiting Events
      • Campus Visits
      • Social Media
      • Parent's Role
      • Walk-On
      • Multi-sport
      • International Students
      • Recruiting Horror Stories
    • Recruiting By Sport
      • Baseball
      • Basketball
      • Bowling
      • Cheerleading
      • ESports
      • Equestrian
      • Fencing
      • Field Hockey
      • Football
      • Golf
      • Gymnastics
      • Hockey
      • Lacrosse
      • Rowing / Crew
      • Rugby
      • Sailing
      • Soccer
      • Softball
      • Squash
      • Swimming & Driving
      • Tennis
      • Cross Country/Track and Field
      • Volleyball
      • Water Polo
      • Wrestling
    • NIL
    • College Athlete Life
      • College Athlete Life
      • Freshman Year
      • Daily Grind
      • Transfer Process
      • Redshirt
    • Be Successful
      • Be Successful
      • Careers
      • Sports Performance
      • Academics Success
      • Health & Wellness
    • News
    • Quizzes
2aDays Logo
    • Ratings
    • Coaches & Staff
    • Colleges
    • Campus Visits
    • Facilities
    • Blogs
      • Blog Home
      • NCAA Rules & Regulations
      • College Sports Recruting
        • College Sports Recruiting
        • Applying to Schools
        • Deciding on a School
        • Scholarships
        • Approaching Coaches
        • Highlight Reels
        • Recruiting Events
        • Campus Visits
        • Social Media
        • Parent's Role
        • Walk-On
        • Multi-sport
        • International Students
        • Recruiting Horror Stories
      • Recruiting By Sport
        • Baseball
        • Basketball
        • Bowling
        • Cheerleading
        • ESports
        • Equestrian
        • Fencing
        • Field Hockey
        • Football
        • Golf
        • Gymnastics
        • Hockey
        • Lacrosse
        • Rowing / Crew
        • Rugby
        • Sailing
        • Soccer
        • Softball
        • Squash
        • Swimming & Driving
        • Tennis
        • Cross Country/Track and Field
        • Volleyball
        • Water Polo
        • Wrestling
      • NIL
      • College Athlete Life
        • College Athlete Life
        • Freshman Year
        • Daily Grind
        • Transfer Process
        • Redshirt
      • Be Successful
        • Be Successful
        • Careers
        • Sports Performance
        • Academics Success
        • Health & Wellness
      • News
      • Quizzes
  • Subscribe
  • Log In
  • Subscribe
  • Sign Up
Ratings
• Coaches & Staff
Ronda Varnesdeel Review
rate Rate
Jump to:
Ratings
• Coaches & Staff
Ronda Varnesdeel Review
rate Rate
Jump to:

Ratings

• Coach & Staff

Ronda Varnesdeel Review

Profile
Ronda Varnesdeel
Associate Director of Athletics
at Davenport University
• Grand Rapids, MI
• NCAA DII

Overall Rating

1.2 Emoj Smile
404 Reviews
6% negative
Would Recommend
rate Rate
Overall
Caring
Motivational
Knowledgeable
Honest
1.2
1.2
1.2
1.2
1.2
Top Tags
Poor Communication
Disorganized
Old School Mentality
Dedicated To Players
Creates A Great Team Culture
Positions
Women's Softball
Associate Director of Athletics
Davenport University • 4-year or above, Private not-for-profit • Grand Rapids, MI
Lock icon

Division and Conference

NCAA DII • GLIAC | Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference
Has this coach and staff changed? Let us know!
Recent Ratings
Coach & Staff Ratings: Ronda Varnesdeel
Filter By  
404 Results Clear All Filters

Gender

Sport

Tags

Reviewer Type

5 star

21

4 star

3

3 star

0

2 star

1

1 star

379

Found 404 ratings

Sort By: Most Recent

Showing 101-125 of 404 results

arrow-left
arrow-right
Women's Softball
Ronda Varnesdeel
Associate Director of Athletics

Davenport University

NCAA DII • Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference | GLIAC

Davenport, Ronda And Admin= Shameful

Date: January 26, 2026

By Other
1.0
negative

Would Recommend

Overall
Caring
Motivational
Knowledgeable
Honest
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0

Tags

Poor Communication Disorganized Old School Mentality Dedicated To Players Creates A Great Team Culture
"I worked at Davenport university for only 2 years and know of 3 inappropriate staff/ athlete relationships that ronda and athletic administrators allowed to continue and covered up. SHAMEFUL "
thumbs_down
0
thumbs_down
Report Abuse
Women's Softball
Ronda Varnesdeel
Associate Director of Athletics

Davenport University

NCAA DII • Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference | GLIAC

Encourages And Hides Inappropriate Relationships! Davenport University Is A Disgrace

Date: January 25, 2026

By Parent
1.0
negative

Would Recommend

Overall
Caring
Motivational
Knowledgeable
Honest
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0

Tags

Poor Communication Disorganized Old School Mentality Dedicated To Players Creates A Great Team Culture
"Rhonda and Davenport University protected their basketball coach who had an inappropriate sexual relationship with his own athlete for over a year! Boys will be boys. What if that was your brother??? The entire athletic administration and HR should be FIRED for protecting this coach and hiding this scandal and letting it continue.Literally what terrible people are at Davenport. It’s on all of your hands. "
thumbs_down
0
thumbs_down
Report Abuse
Women's Softball
Ronda Varnesdeel
Associate Director of Athletics

Davenport University

NCAA DII • Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference | GLIAC

You All Are Warned About Going To Davenport U

Date: January 24, 2026

By Parent
1.0
negative

Would Recommend

Overall
Caring
Motivational
Knowledgeable
Honest
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0

Tags

Poor Communication Disorganized Old School Mentality Dedicated To Players Creates A Great Team Culture
"If you want to drink and have sex with coaches and staff Davenport University is the place for you. All around a safe haven for predators! Ronda, the vice president, Paul and HR ALL ALLOW THIS BEHAVIOR! Just MALES being MALES they say. Hope none of your kids find themselves in a bad situation with BAD PEOPLE!!!!"
thumbs_down
0
thumbs_down
Report Abuse
Women's Softball
Ronda Varnesdeel
Associate Director of Athletics

Davenport University

NCAA DII • Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference | GLIAC

Protects Male Coaches That Sleep With Players

Date: January 24, 2026

By Parent
1.0
negative

Would Recommend

Overall
Caring
Motivational
Knowledgeable
Honest
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0

Tags

Poor Communication Disorganized Old School Mentality Dedicated To Players Creates A Great Team Culture
"Anyone else in your position would have been fired 10 years ago. Your violations stack and stack and your friends cover for you. That’s why you promote unqualified employees so they are loyal to you. I hope one day someone on the board reads your truth. Sad thing is no one is lying about you. I know you’re a narcissist and get people to believe your sad tales but what you did to my daughter’s team won’t go unnoticed. You promoted a guy that slept with his player and then protected him. I believe HR and everyone at this school is corrupt. It’s disturbing what you all get away with. "
thumbs_down
0
thumbs_down
Report Abuse
Women's Softball
Ronda Varnesdeel
Associate Director of Athletics

Davenport University

NCAA DII • Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference | GLIAC

Ignored Our Concerns To Protect Her Abusive Friend

Date: January 23, 2026

By Athlete
1.0
negative

Would Recommend

Overall
Caring
Motivational
Knowledgeable
Honest
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0

Tags

Poor Communication Disorganized Old School Mentality Dedicated To Players Creates A Great Team Culture
"I 100 percent regret playing at Davenport. Ronda is friends with all the abusers at Davenport and she protects them. During my time at DU it seemed Ronda didn’t like coaches who had a clean image or were trying to do the right things. She really seemed to like coaches who broke rules, were inherently mean and abusive to their teams and ones who clearly masked themselves in medication. I’m assuming because that’s exactly who and what she is to her core. Ronda didn’t listen to any of our concerns and I spent my playing career getting abused by a guy that seemed to do it for fun. Meanwhile Ronda used him as a top pillar coach at DU as an example of what others should strive to be. A beyond delusional university. I should have never stayed in this atmosphere. Reflecting on my time I can say with certainty if you stay in an environment like this it will change you for the worse as you will start to think things like this are normal. THEY AREN'T. Save yourself. "
thumbs_down
0
thumbs_down
Report Abuse
Women's Softball
Ronda Varnesdeel
Associate Director of Athletics

Davenport University

NCAA DII • Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference | GLIAC

The People At Davenport Are Very Disturbing

Date: January 21, 2026

By Other
1.0
negative

Would Recommend

Overall
Caring
Motivational
Knowledgeable
Honest
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0

Tags

Poor Communication Disorganized Old School Mentality Dedicated To Players Creates A Great Team Culture
"I have recordings of Rhonda bashing student athletes and coaches. That’s pretty much how you know you are working for a corrupt school. They all have dirt on each other so the obligation of protecting each other is evident. How they covered up the women’s basketball coach sleeping with his athletes didn’t sit well with me so I started paying attention. I’m sad to have my name associated with this place. I will start looking for work elsewhere because it’s evident these people are corrupt and applaud dishonesty and disturbing behaviors. "
thumbs_down
0
thumbs_down
Report Abuse
Women's Softball
Ronda Varnesdeel
Associate Director of Athletics

Davenport University

NCAA DII • Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference | GLIAC

Didn’t Listen To Us What So Ever. Didn’t Care

Date: January 20, 2026

By Athlete
1.0
negative

Would Recommend

Overall
Caring
Motivational
Knowledgeable
Honest
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0

Tags

Poor Communication Disorganized Old School Mentality Dedicated To Players Creates A Great Team Culture
"I told Ronda that Rob Harris was abusing our team and she put him on a pedestal. She shut us down and didn’t care. Why weren’t we heard and why weren’t our concerns took seriously? "
thumbs_down
0
thumbs_down
Report Abuse
Women's Softball
Ronda Varnesdeel
Associate Director of Athletics

Davenport University

NCAA DII • Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference | GLIAC

Abuses Athletic Funds And Allows Her Friends To Do The Same

Date: January 19, 2026

By Other
1.0
negative

Would Recommend

Overall
Caring
Motivational
Knowledgeable
Honest
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0

Tags

Poor Communication Disorganized Old School Mentality Dedicated To Players Creates A Great Team Culture
"Rhonda should be investigated for abusing university funds. She uses funds for personal use as well as allowing many coaches who have been on staff for a long time to do the same. Ultimate corruption at Davenport University. "
thumbs_down
0
thumbs_down
Report Abuse
Women's Softball
Ronda Varnesdeel
Associate Director of Athletics

Davenport University

NCAA DII • Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference | GLIAC

Beyond Unprofessional

Date: January 19, 2026

By Other
1.0
negative

Would Recommend

Overall
Caring
Motivational
Knowledgeable
Honest
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0

Tags

Poor Communication Disorganized Old School Mentality Dedicated To Players Creates A Great Team Culture
"Never heard an administrator call someone a “retard” before. Until I met Rhonda. "
thumbs_down
0
thumbs_down
Report Abuse
Women's Softball
Ronda Varnesdeel
Associate Director of Athletics

Davenport University

NCAA DII • Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference | GLIAC

Du It All Right. Took That Too Far At This Disgusting School

Date: January 18, 2026

By Parent
1.0
negative

Would Recommend

Overall
Caring
Motivational
Knowledgeable
Honest
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0

Tags

Poor Communication Disorganized Old School Mentality Dedicated To Players Creates A Great Team Culture
"Davenport University is full of unethical people that lack integrity and character. The VP, all athletic administrators and HR are all major PROBLEMS. They all knowingly cover up scandal after scandal. They encourage coaches drinking and having sex with athletes. If you want to coach at a school like this god speed to you. Everyone at this school knows of this behavior and this behavior continues to happen and they keep their mouth shut. So in reality everyone who works at DU should be labeled of this terrible behavior. These people knowingly allowed and gave a scholarship for a 5th year to a girl that flaunted her sexual relationship with her coach. She manipulated the coach to change schedule times and taunted his fiancé. This behavior was rewarded and ALLOWED by admin for over a year. DU is the most twisted, toxic and disgusting school in D2. BEWARE what your kid might be getting into coming to this school. Manipulators that create more manipulators. Glad you’re grooming your student athletes to be just like these toxic people in power. "
thumbs_down
0
thumbs_down
Report Abuse
Women's Softball
Ronda Varnesdeel
Associate Director of Athletics

Davenport University

NCAA DII • Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference | GLIAC

Terrible Admin, Hr And Coaches At Davenport University

Date: January 16, 2026

By Other
1.0
negative

Would Recommend

Overall
Caring
Motivational
Knowledgeable
Honest
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0

Tags

Poor Communication Disorganized Old School Mentality Dedicated To Players Creates A Great Team Culture
"2adays needs to open an investigation on Rhonda and what she deliberately allows to happen at Davenport without any consequence. Rhonda, the executive AD, the title IX coordinator, the men’s basketball coach, the entire men’s and women’s basketball teams, and many other sports all knowingly allowed the former basketball coach to sleep with his athletes. Players frequently saw this coach have players in his hotel room and to his residence. All the people listed above knew this was happening and let it continue happening for over a year. No investigation, literally nothing. How can an NCAA institution allow this to happen. To make matters worse these people all silenced the athletes who tried to speak out and assistant coaches. All the coaches and administrators should be fired for knowingly allowing this to happen and silencing poor athletes with threats. There’s a pattern of bad behavior at this school and silencing of teams. It’s sickening they can bully and do whatever they want. The NCAA should shut this school down. "
thumbs_down
0
thumbs_down
Report Abuse
Women's Softball
Ronda Varnesdeel
Associate Director of Athletics

Davenport University

NCAA DII • Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference | GLIAC

Rhonda Should Be Fired Immediately

Date: January 15, 2026

By Other
1.0
negative

Would Recommend

Overall
Caring
Motivational
Knowledgeable
Honest
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0

Tags

Poor Communication Disorganized Old School Mentality Dedicated To Players Creates A Great Team Culture
"Can’t believe Rhonda didn’t insert herself to be the head coach of the WBB team right now. Leaving it up to an assistant that has no prior college coaching experience. Very strange. Guess she didn’t need a pay raise this semester. Clown show of a university. Glad I no longer coach basketball at DU. Would rather have a man with jv experience step in than a woman who has prior college coaching experience. Did the same thing with the previous HC. Only high school experience that involved sleeping with athletes. "
thumbs_down
0
thumbs_down
Report Abuse
Women's Softball
Ronda Varnesdeel
Associate Director of Athletics

Davenport University

NCAA DII • Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference | GLIAC

Being The Swa Is A Joke

Date: January 15, 2026

By Parent
1.0
negative

Would Recommend

Overall
Caring
Motivational
Knowledgeable
Honest
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0

Tags

Poor Communication Disorganized Old School Mentality Dedicated To Players Creates A Great Team Culture
"Has absolutely no right to be the SWA of any school. Completely puts females athletes and coaches second to male coaches and athletes. Told an assistant “how would you feel if that was your brother” in regard to a male coach sleeping with a student and cheating on his finance. It’s insane Rhonda has the title of SWA or has anything to do with title 9. It’s a disgrace to the job title. "
thumbs_down
0
thumbs_down
Report Abuse
Women's Softball
Ronda Varnesdeel
Associate Director of Athletics

Davenport University

NCAA DII • Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference | GLIAC

Promotes Sexual Relationships With Coaches And Athletes As A Normal Thing. Sickening

Date: January 15, 2026

By Parent
1.0
negative

Would Recommend

Overall
Caring
Motivational
Knowledgeable
Honest
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0

Tags

Poor Communication Disorganized Old School Mentality Dedicated To Players Creates A Great Team Culture
"100 percent would not recommend. Ronda is a narcissist and master manipulator that gets people to do her dirty work for her. Everyone in Kalkaska knows what you covered up and let slide. It’s sickening that this woman is still involved in the basketball programs at the school after what she did. Outrageous. Should not be involved in any athletic programs as she pushes her own agenda and blames everyone else who disagrees. Covers up men who sleep with athletes and steal from the school. Needs to be investigated. "
thumbs_down
0
thumbs_down
Report Abuse
Women's Softball
Ronda Varnesdeel
Associate Director of Athletics

Davenport University

NCAA DII • Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference | GLIAC

It’s Sad The Coaches She Covers Up Scandals For Don’t Even Like Her

Date: January 12, 2026

By Other
1.0
negative

Would Recommend

Overall
Caring
Motivational
Knowledgeable
Honest
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0

Tags

Poor Communication Disorganized Old School Mentality Dedicated To Players Creates A Great Team Culture
"Failed to report multiple violations of coaches due to unprofessional relationships and seniority of those coaches. Wrong is wrong. You shouldn’t be able to cover up scandal after scandal for friends. It’s absurd what Davenport University allows their athletic admin to get away with. "
thumbs_down
0
thumbs_down
Report Abuse
Women's Softball
Ronda Varnesdeel
Associate Director of Athletics

Davenport University

NCAA DII • Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference | GLIAC

Some Things Will Never Change. Ruining Lives Since 2011

Date: January 11, 2026

By Parent
1.0
negative

Would Recommend

Overall
Caring
Motivational
Knowledgeable
Honest
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0

Tags

Poor Communication Disorganized Old School Mentality Dedicated To Players Creates A Great Team Culture
"I first read about one of Davenport’s scandals on Twitter. Ant Wright was right. This school covers up major offenses up. They gaslight and change the narrative and offer these poor naive children more benefits, more clothes, new things. I don’t blame the kids. Most stay knowing that they won’t get that amount of stuff at any other d2 school that isn’t very good. I sure hope these kids and parents look back and see how staying silent and conforming to this toxic environment is and will be extremely harmful for theirs and others future. I’m happy my child no longer has Davenport University associated with their name. Some seriously evil things are happening in Grand Rapids."
thumbs_down
0
thumbs_down
Report Abuse
Women's Softball
Ronda Varnesdeel
Associate Director of Athletics

Davenport University

NCAA DII • Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference | GLIAC

Where The Heartless Are: Davenport U. Sums It Up Perfectly

Date: January 11, 2026

By Athlete
1.0
negative

Would Recommend

Overall
Caring
Motivational
Knowledgeable
Honest
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0

Tags

Poor Communication Disorganized Old School Mentality Dedicated To Players Creates A Great Team Culture
"Trauma bonding is a powerful psychological attachment that forms between an abuser and their victim, stemming from a cycle of abuse followed by positive reinforcement, creating a confusing bond of fear, dependency, and affection. It's a survival response where the brain latches onto intermittent kindness and relief from the abuser, making it difficult to leave the harmful relationship, and can occur in a cult settings, similar to Stockholm Syndrome. The abuser alternates between abuse (threats, criticism, control) and affection (love bombing, apologies, gifts). In stressful situations, humans naturally turn to a caregiver figure for safety; in abuse, the abuser becomes this figure, triggering the brain's attachment system, releasing oxytocin. Emotional rollercoaster: The brain becomes conditioned to the highs (dopamine from affection) and lows (cortisol from conflict), creating dependence. Signs of a trauma bond Making excuses for the abuser's behavior. Feeling guilt or shame when thinking about leaving. Feeling controlled or isolated. Hypervigilance, feeling like you're "walking on eggshells". Rationalizing the relationship or hoping the abuser will change. Strong loyalty despite the harm. "
thumbs_down
0
thumbs_down
Report Abuse
Women's Softball
Ronda Varnesdeel
Associate Director of Athletics

Davenport University

NCAA DII • Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference | GLIAC

I Used To Wear Du Proudly On My Chest In That Gym. Not Anymore. Deep Problems At Du. Not A Place To Want To Be Associated With

Date: January 11, 2026

By Parent
1.0
negative

Would Recommend

Overall
Caring
Motivational
Knowledgeable
Honest
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0

Tags

Poor Communication Disorganized Old School Mentality Dedicated To Players Creates A Great Team Culture
"DU is a deeply unethical university athletic program where serious misconduct is normalized and protected. Athletes are permitted to break rules involving alcohol, sexual relationships with coaches, and academic integrity, while staff and administrators knowingly look the other way—especially when favored coaches or employees are involved. Inappropriate relationships between staff and athletes, misuse of athletic funds for personal benefit, and repeated violations during travel and recruiting activities. Anyone who raise ethical concerns are silenced or retaliated against, and internal accountability systems such as HR and Title IX are compromised. The removal of anonymous reporting mechanisms is part of a broader effort to shield leadership and preferred employees from scrutiny. Davenport Athletics is corrupt. Meaningful reform is unlikely and few safe avenues to report misconduct are available. Sad reality is that Davenport is teaching the next generation to be corrupt, unethical, have no morals, to be selfish and that accountability doesn’t exist based on who you know. "
thumbs_down
0
thumbs_down
Report Abuse
Women's Softball
Ronda Varnesdeel
Associate Director of Athletics

Davenport University

NCAA DII • Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference | GLIAC

What Is Happening At Davenport University Is Much Bigger Than Just Having A Problem With A Coach. It’s Disgusting Colleges Like This Exist

Date: January 11, 2026

By Parent
1.0
negative

Would Recommend

Overall
Caring
Motivational
Knowledgeable
Honest
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0

Tags

Poor Communication Disorganized Old School Mentality Dedicated To Players Creates A Great Team Culture
"Rhonda, the executive AD, and the title IX coordinator, and the executive VP of student services are part of a deeply unethical and corrupt culture within their university athletic program. This group operates as a tightly controlled inner circle that protects certain male employees and at least one female facilities worker from accountability, even when accused of serious misconduct. This culture includes the misuse of athletic funds, inappropriate personal and sexual relationships between full time employees and athletes, alcohol use with athletes, sexual harassment, and the normalization of these behaviors within the program. Athletes are conditioned to believe such conduct is “normal” through incentives such as extra benefits, preferential treatment, or larger scholarships. The university systematically controls narratives, discourages complaints, and covers up Title IX violations. The athletic administration makes sure certain Title IX coordinators are unaware of misconduct involving favored coaches or staff due to internal suppression of reports. A broader drug and sex culture is encouraged at Davenport. One that disproportionately protects male staff and athletes. Rhonda, in particular, enables and normalizes inappropriate relationships between coaches and athletes and protects specific individuals due to personal connections. There is widespread academic dishonesty within the athletic program, including athletes receiving improper assistance with coursework and facing little to no accountability when violations are discovered. Davenport University lacks academic rigor, ethical leadership, and meaningful oversight, and the situation warrants investigation by external authorities. "
thumbs_down
0
thumbs_down
Report Abuse
Women's Softball
Ronda Varnesdeel
Associate Director of Athletics

Davenport University

NCAA DII • Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference | GLIAC

Du Is Beyond Corrupt. All The Administrators And Senior Coaches Are All In On It. Be Careful

Date: January 10, 2026

By Other
1.0
negative

Would Recommend

Overall
Caring
Motivational
Knowledgeable
Honest
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0

Tags

Poor Communication Disorganized Old School Mentality Dedicated To Players Creates A Great Team Culture
"Rhonda participated in the suppression of information related to an incident in which a baseball coach was drinking alcohol with members of the softball team. Following this incident, four baseball players were later arrested in Florida for intoxication and fleeing from police.In the aftermath, the athletic administration issued internal emails instructing staff and athletes not to discuss the events with anyone outside the department. No formal or independent investigation was conducted into the coach’s behavior, and no disciplinary action or accountability measures were imposed on the baseball coach. Student-athletes involved in related misconduct faced minimal consequences. These events are described as part of a broader pattern within the athletic administration, in which leadership has repeatedly attempted to control narratives, discourage transparency, and silence individuals who raise ethical concerns. Davenport administration has a documented history of covering up scandals and disproportionately protecting male coaches from scrutiny or accountability."
thumbs_down
0
thumbs_down
Report Abuse
Women's Softball
Ronda Varnesdeel
Associate Director of Athletics

Davenport University

NCAA DII • Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference | GLIAC

Unethical Athletic Department

Date: January 10, 2026

By Parent
1.0
negative

Would Recommend

Overall
Caring
Motivational
Knowledgeable
Honest
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0

Tags

Poor Communication Disorganized Old School Mentality Dedicated To Players Creates A Great Team Culture
"One of the coaches engaged in an inappropriate relationship with one of his athletes and he, Ronda and all athletic administration took steps to conceal it. Individuals who were aware of the situation were silenced through threats or removed from their roles. The athlete involved reportedly mocked the situation publicly online, boasting about early access to information, influence over coaching decisions, and the power she held over the coach. Ronda, along with the executive AD, the vice president, and title IX deputy coordinator, participated in covering up the situation. Rather than addressing the alleged misconduct, they are accused of “cleaning house” by removing coaches and players who objected to the behavior on ethical grounds. No public statement or formal investigation was reportedly conducted. Ronda sent a mass email praising Coach Travis despite the alleged misconduct, including misuse of funds. Additionally, the basketball coach instructed players to “mind their own business” and being complicit in discouraging discussion of the situation. Davenport’s athletic department has a culture based on silencing athletes, coaches and staff, retaliation, and administrative protection rather than accountability. One of the most unethical schools in the country. "
thumbs_down
0
thumbs_down
Report Abuse
Women's Softball
Ronda Varnesdeel
Associate Director of Athletics

Davenport University

NCAA DII • Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference | GLIAC

Whistleblower Statement Regarding Athletic Department Misconduct And Retaliation

Date: January 9, 2026

By Other
1.0
negative

Would Recommend

Overall
Caring
Motivational
Knowledgeable
Honest
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0

Tags

Poor Communication Disorganized Old School Mentality Dedicated To Players Creates A Great Team Culture
"I am submitting this statement as a whistleblower to report ongoing and systemic misconduct within the athletic department at Davenport University. The issues described below involve abuse of authority, retaliation against student-athletes and coaches, failure to investigate sexual misconduct, coaches drinking with student athletes and misuse of institutional funds and resources. Overview of Misconduct Over an extended period, multiple male coaches and athletic staff members across several programs—including baseball, men’s basketball, football, and women’s basketball —have engaged in inappropriate relationships and/or conduct with student-athletes. These behaviors were known by athletic administrators and Human Resources. Despite this knowledge, no meaningful investigations were initiated, and the individuals involved were allowed to continue working with student-athletes. Administrative Cover-Up and Suppression Senior athletic administrators—specifically Ronda oversaw multiple teams and exercised authority over athletes’ scholarships, team placement, and employment opportunities. These administrators: Explicitly forbade student-athletes from discussing or reporting misconduct Warned athletes that speaking out would result in loss of playing time, scholarships, roster spots, or jobs Rewarded silence by offering increased scholarship funds, paid campus jobs, or other benefits Created a culture of fear, intimidation, and dependency that discouraged reporting Retaliation Student-athletes and coaches who attempted to raise concerns or ask questions were met with: Threats to their athletic standing Scholarship manipulation Isolation from teammates Loss of employment This retaliation occurred both directly and indirectly and was clearly tied to attempts to silence reports of misconduct. Human Resources Knowledge Human Resources—specifically the title IX deputy coordinator was made aware of concerns involving: Head coaches Assistant coaches Graduate assistants Athletic trainers Despite this awareness, HR failed to intervene, escalate, or ensure compliance with institutional policy or federal law. Failure of Oversight The lack of investigation, combined with continued access to student-athletes by accused staff, represents a significant failure of: Compliance oversight Athlete safeguarding Ethical governance Fiduciary responsibility regarding scholarship and employment funds Request for Action I am requesting: An independent investigation by an external body Protection from retaliation for any reporting individuals A full audit of scholarship allocations, employment placements and displacements, and discretionary funds Review of HR and administrative failures to act This statement is truthful to the best of my knowledge and is submitted in good faith to prevent further harm to student-athletes."
thumbs_down
0
thumbs_down
Report Abuse
Women's Softball
Ronda Varnesdeel
Associate Director of Athletics

Davenport University

NCAA DII • Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference | GLIAC

Formal Title Ix Complaint: Sexual Misconduct, Hostile Environment, And Retaliation

Date: January 9, 2026

By Other
1.0
negative

Would Recommend

Overall
Caring
Motivational
Knowledgeable
Honest
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0

Tags

Poor Communication Disorganized Old School Mentality Dedicated To Players Creates A Great Team Culture
"This is a formal Title IX complaint alleging sexual misconduct, abuse of authority, creation of a hostile educational environment, and retaliation within the athletic department at Davenport. Sexual Misconduct and Inappropriate Relationships: Multiple male coaches and athletic staff members engaged in inappropriate relationships and/or conduct with student-athletes across several programs, including: Baseball Men’s basketball Football Former women’s basketball Involvement of assistants, GAs, and trainers These relationships involved significant power imbalances and violated institutional policy and Title IX protections. Knowledge and Deliberate Indifference Athletic administrators and Human Resources were aware of these concerns. Despite this knowledge: No formal investigations were initiated Accused individuals retained access to student-athletes No protective measures were implemented This constitutes deliberate indifference under Title IX. Retaliation and Coercion Student-athletes were discouraged from reporting misconduct through: Threats of scholarship reduction or loss Removal from teams or reduced playing time Loss or denial of campus jobs Explicit instructions not to speak about coaches’ behavior Conversely, some athletes were offered increased scholarships or employment in exchange for silence. This behavior violates Title IX’s prohibition on retaliation. Hostile Environment The cumulative effect of unchecked misconduct, intimidation, and retaliation created a hostile educational and athletic environment where student-athletes and coaches reasonably feared reporting abuse. Requested Remedies I respectfully request: A prompt, thorough, and impartial investigation Interim measures to protect affected athletes Review of scholarship and employment practices for coercion or misuse Accountability for administrators and HR personnel who failed to act Institutional reforms to prevent recurrence I certify that this complaint is made in good faith and that the information provided is accurate to the best of my knowledge."
thumbs_down
0
thumbs_down
Report Abuse
Women's Softball
Ronda Varnesdeel
Associate Director of Athletics

Davenport University

NCAA DII • Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference | GLIAC

Racked Up A Lot Of Naia Violations For Cheating. Nothing Has Changed. Still Cheating And Buying People

Date: January 8, 2026

By Other
1.0
negative

Would Recommend

Overall
Caring
Motivational
Knowledgeable
Honest
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0

Tags

Poor Communication Disorganized Old School Mentality Dedicated To Players Creates A Great Team Culture
"Offered higher scholarships and jobs for hush money. Zero morals at Davenport. Offered the trainer a raise to keep her mouth shut. Anyone she can’t buy or anyone who has morals won’t do well at this university. If you’re selfish this is the place for you. Mostly a group of people that think they are special because they work in college athletics. 95 percent of what happens in the athletic department isn’t what happens at any other college or University. Higher education is supposed to educate and create more solid adults. This university is the exact opposite of that. It creates weak, lazy, entitled people that constant have their hand out and constantly think they are owed something. Not because they deserve it or because they are actually good. This school has no business being an NCAA INSTITUTION. "
thumbs_down
0
thumbs_down
Report Abuse
Women's Softball
Ronda Varnesdeel
Associate Director of Athletics

Davenport University

NCAA DII • Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference | GLIAC

I Believe Ronda Is The Devil. Everyone In Colorado Does

Date: January 7, 2026

By Other
1.0
negative

Would Recommend

Overall
Caring
Motivational
Knowledgeable
Honest
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0

Tags

Poor Communication Disorganized Old School Mentality Dedicated To Players Creates A Great Team Culture
"I’m positive not only Ronda but the athletes that watched and followed along with what they knew was wrong but still went along with it won’t be punished. One of the worst schools in the country after following the story from my wife. The parents of these girls should be written about. Amazingly sick citizens. The parents show you how the kids will be. Ronda is guilty of this the most. God see’s it all I hope and pray. If there really is a god -true realization and punishment will be served to both ronda, employees, staff and the athletes. They all like to put crosses and bible verses on themselves but they are more worshipped by the devil. Evil evil evil people .greed greed greed greed. I will make sure all my realities in Utah and California know of these EVIL PEOPLE AND my home state of Illinois. "
thumbs_down
0
thumbs_down
Report Abuse

Showing 101-125 of 404 results

arrow-left
arrow-right

Are you sure?

You are about to remove Ronda Varnesdeel from your saved coaches & staffs.

Yes, Remove

Subscribe to unlock this feature.

Level up to make the right college athletic decision. Become a 2aDays member for as low as $5 a month. Gain access to tools that take your college search and recruiting process to the next level.
Subscribe Now

Already got an account? Log in here

Create an account to use this feature

Create a 2aDays account or subscribe for as low as $5 a month. Subscribe to power up your recruiting and college sports experience.
Signup For Free Subscribe & Power Up

Already got an account? Log in here

Report Abuse

Fill out the form below and we’ll try to help you out as best as we can. More details of contact info below.

Coach Profiles

Fill out the form below and we’ll try to help you out as best as we can. More details of contact info below.

Stay in the Know
Sign up for 2aDays newsletters
Get Free Newsletter
  • TikTok
  • YouTube
  • Instagram
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • LinkedIn
  • About Us
  • Join Our Team
  • Contact
  • Press
  • About Ratings & Data
  • About Verified Athlete
  • Help

© 2aDays, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

Terms of Use • Community Guidelines • Privacy Policy