ANN ARBOR, Mich. -- The University of Michigan Athletics Department will end its consulting relationship between Rhonda Faehn and the U-M women's gymnastics program.

"I have come to the conclusion that it is not in the best interest of the University of Michigan and our athletic program to continue the consulting contract with Rhonda Faehn," said Warde Manuel, the university's Donald R. Shepherd Director of Athletics. "It was the wrong decision, and I apologize. Our student-athletes are our highest priority and I want to do everything in my power to support them fully and put the focus back on their athletic performance."