C Kowal granted release by N. Illinois

Aug 5, 2010 - 7:08 PM DEKALB, Ill.(AP) -- Northern Illinois has given center Sean Kowal his release, ending a dispute over the player's decision to obtain a graduate degree at another school.

Kowal wants to pursue a master's degree in theology, a program Northern Illinois does not offer. The school initially denied him a release.

Athletics director Jeff Compher says the university had a change of heart Tuesday, when Kowal provided the school with more specific information about what he intends to pursue academically. The NCAA must give Kowal a waiver for him to be eligible to play this season.