In a swift response to a post‑game altercation, the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) has suspended nine University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB) football players. The suspensions follow a fight that erupted immediately after the final whistle of the Lions’ 35‑32 victory over Grambling State on Nov. 7.
SWAC officials said a total of 23 athletes were disciplined for actions that violated the league’s code of ethics. The breakdown includes nine UAPB players and 14 Grambling State players. In addition to the suspensions, each institution will pay a $25,000 fine.
Conference reaction
“We’re extremely disappointed by the events that transpired during post‑game 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.”
Dr. McClelland added that the conference will continue to enforce a zero‑tolerance policy for any conduct deemed unsportsmanlike or contrary to the high standard of good sportsmanship expected from all individuals associated with SWAC athletics.
Impact on UAPB’s season
UAPB enters the next two weeks with a 6‑3 record. The Lions are scheduled to face Prairie View A&M and Texas Southern, games that will now be played without the suspended athletes. The team’s coaching staff has not yet released a detailed plan for adjusting the roster.
KATV reached out to UAPB for comment, but a statement was not available at the time of publication.
Broader context
Incidents of unsportsmanlike conduct are taken seriously by the SWAC, which seeks to uphold the integrity of competition among its member schools. The league’s swift disciplinary action underscores its commitment to maintaining a safe and respectful environment for student‑athletes, coaches, and fans.
Both UAPB and Grambling State will need to address the disciplinary measures while preparing for the remainder of the season. The fines imposed also serve as a financial reminder of the costs associated with conduct that falls short of the conference’s standards.
Original reporting: KATV Little Rock (local) — read the source article.
