Tackle seeks paternity leave for males

LAWRENCE, Kan., Aug. 25 (UPI) -- Kansas defensive tackle Eric Butler is trying to extend the NCAA rule on paternity leaves for women athletes to cover males as well.

Butler lost a year's eligibility when he missed the 2001 season following the birth of his daughter, USA Today said, and the NCAA won't give him an extra year.

In addition, he also filed a federal civil rights suit because the ruling pertains only to women. He lost the first round on that and is waiting to hear from the U.S. Court of Appeals.

He asked for a quick decision because the new season is about to begin.