Courtesy of the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) and Grambling State University
The Southwestern Athletic Conference has announced the suspensions and institutional fines stemming from a postgame altercation that occurred between the Arkansas-Pine Bluff and Grambling State football teams on Saturday.
The fight occurred on the field at Eddie Robinson Stadium immediately following the conclusion of UAPB’s 35-32 win over GSU.
“We’re extremely disappointed by the events that transpired during postgame of the Arkansas-Pine Bluff at Grambling State football game,” said SWAC Commissioner Dr. Charles McClelland. “Acts of that nature have zero place in the Southwestern Athletic Conference and intercollegiate athletics.”
“The Conference Office has and will continue to enforce a zero-tolerance policy for all acts deemed to be unsportsmanlike and contrary to the high standard of good sportsmanship we expect from all individuals associated with the athletics programs within our league.”
According to the press release from the SWAC, after conducting a thorough investigation and coordinated review with both institutions, it was determined that both schools violated the league’s code of ethics/conduct by committing acts of unsportsmanlike conduct.
Twenty-three student-athletes (9 from Arkansas-Pine Bluff and 14 from Grambling State) have been suspended for their respective involvement in the altercation. Of the total number of 23 suspensions, multiple players have been disciplined with two game suspensions due to the severity of their actions.
No names or further details were provided by either the SWAC or Grambling State.
Additionally, in accordance to the league’s bylaws and sports regulations, the Conference Office issued a fine against Arkansas-Pine Bluff in the amount of $25,000.00, along with a fine against Grambling State in the amount of $25,000.00.
Grambling State released the following statement from Athletic Director Trayvean Scott.
“We hold our student-athletes to the highest standards of conduct, sportsmanship and accountability,” said Scott. “The behavior exhibited following Saturday’s contest does not reflect the values of Grambling State University or the expectations of our athletics department and we strongly condemn these actions. I take these matters seriously and remain committed to fostering an environment that promotes respect, integrity and sportsmanship.
“I apologize to the Grambling State University community and to the UAPB team and their fans. I have been in contact with UAPB Director of Athletics Chris Robinson to express our sincere apologies, as well.”
Grambling State travels to face Bethune-Cookman Saturday.
