By Kyra Alessandrini
A coach and 36 players were suspended after a brawl erupted on the football field following a Friday game between Howard University and North Carolina Central University. According to ABC11, NCCU had 19 players and an assistant coach suspended, while Howard had 17 players suspended. No names were released.
âThe Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference has a zero-tolerance policy for fighting, as it directly violates the values of sportsmanship, respect, and integrity that define our Conference,â MEAC Commissioner Sonja Stills said in a press release on Monday evening. âWe are committed to maintaining a safe and respectful environment for all student-athletes, coaches, and fans. Any actions that compromise these principles will result in serious consequences. We expect all participants in MEAC athletic events to conduct themselves with dignity and uphold the high standards that reflect the spirit of the MEAC.â
âThe altercation is not only deeply disappointing but also stands in stark contrast to North Carolina Central Universityâs (NCCU) core values. Such disruptive behavior is unacceptable, and we are committed to conducting a full investigation and taking appropriate disciplinary action to ensure accountability,â NCCU Chancellor Dr. Karrie G. Dixon said on Sunday.
He added, âAs an institution dedicated to excellence, our mission extends beyond academics and athletics; it encompasses fostering a culture of respect, integrity, and sportsmanship. We believe that everyoneâstudents, faculty, staff, and supportersâhas a vital role in upholding these principles. Together, we will work to ensure that NCCU remains a place where values guide our actions and respect prevails on and off the field.â
NCCU head coach Trei Oliver called out the incident during Mondayâs press conference.
âThereâs no room for that. Thereâs no reason to be fighting or anything like that,â he said. âYou have 60 minutesâŠgo ahead and play hard for 60 minutes. Compete, shake hands, and letâs letâs go ahead and be done with it. But we have our opportunity play on national television and be able to display our brand, two great universities. And I think a great conference. And I think that we let our university down, conference down and all of HBCU.â