SIAC Suspends 20 Players, Coaches After Fort Valley Brawl
UPDATE: The Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC) has just announced major suspensions following a shocking postgame brawl between Fort Valley State University and Central State University players. The incident unfolded on October 7, 2023, during Fort Valley’s Homecoming game, which ended in an 18–14 upset victory for Central State.
In total, 20 players have been suspended—nine from Fort Valley State and 11 from Central State. Additionally, both head coaches, Marlon Watson of Fort Valley and Tony Carter of Central State, will serve one-game bans. The SIAC has also imposed undisclosed fines on both programs, citing violations of the league’s code of ethics and unsportsmanlike conduct.
“Acts of unsportsmanlike conduct have no place in intercollegiate athletics or within the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference,” said SIAC Commissioner Anthony Holloman in a statement. “I am extremely disappointed that this event has overshadowed what was otherwise a very competitive football game.”
Video footage of the violent altercation has rapidly circulated on social media, showing chaos erupting near midfield shortly after the final whistle. Players from both sides quickly joined the fray, prompting intervention from coaches and security personnel to restore order.
In response, Fort Valley State released an official statement confirming the suspensions and expressing regret to fans, students, and Central State. “We extend our sincere apologies to the Fort Valley State University community, as well as CSU, their student-athletes, coaches, and fans,” the statement read.
Fort Valley State emphasized that the actions displayed do not reflect the values of sportsmanship, integrity, and respect that the institution stands for. The university is committed to ensuring its student-athletes understand the importance of representing the university with pride and professionalism both on and off the field.
This incident comes at a particularly challenging time for Fort Valley State athletics, as the school’s Blue Machine Marching Band was already suspended over hazing allegations, leading to two arrests and a notably quiet atmosphere during Saturday’s game.
The SIAC has reiterated its zero-tolerance policy regarding unsportsmanlike behavior and is working closely with member institutions to enhance policies that prevent similar incidents in the future.
For Fort Valley State, the repercussions extend beyond disciplinary action; the school faces significant challenges in maintaining its reputation as one of the state’s historic HBCU programs. This Homecoming weekend, typically a celebration of school spirit and tradition, will instead be remembered for a regrettable incident that serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of heated moments.
As the fallout continues, officials and fans alike will be watching closely to see how the university responds and what measures will be taken to restore integrity and pride in its athletic programs.
