The Georgia High School Association levied harsh penalties on Brunswick’s football program after a brawl ended a second-round game early last week against Gainesville.
The GHSA hit Brunswick with one-year playoff ban, suspended 41 players and fined the school $5,000 for the fight. In a statement, Brunswick principal Slade Turner said the school accepted the punishment and would also give out additional sanctions to the students involved.
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The fight started with less than two minutes remaining in the third quarter of a game Gainesville was winning 42-0. Officials called the game after the fight.
In a statement from Glynn County assistant superintendent of schools, Steve Waters, he said the program has accepted the penalties and will learn from it.
“On behalf of the Glynn County School System, we thank the GHSA, Dr. Scott, and his staff for their leadership and swift resolution. Their decision has been made, and we will fully support and comply with all sanctions issued to the Brunswick High School football program,” Waters said.
“There is no place for incidents like this in education-based athletics, and we deeply regret the incident that took place last Friday night. Moving forward, our football program will be focused on learning from this incident and reinforcing the values of sportsmanship, discipline, and respect.”
Full statement from Brunswick principal Slade Turner: “Brunswick High School provided the GHSA with all available game film, as well as detailed lists identifying players who entered the field, those who actively engaged in the altercation, and those who remained on the sideline as instructed. The GHSA reviewed all information submitted by both Brunswick High School and Gainesville High School and issued the ruling outlined below.
“In addition to the sanctions and suspensions issued by the GHSA, Brunswick High School has initiated its own disciplinary process for the students involved. Those who committed the most serious sportsmanship violations will receive consequences in accordance with the Glynn County Code of Conduct, in addition to any penalties imposed by the GHSA.
“At Brunswick High School, we take pride in how our students represent our school and community. What occurred during the game does not align with the expectations we set for our athletes or the example we work to model. This situation gives us an opportunity to reaffirm the values that guide our programs and to continue building a culture that reflects the true character of Brunswick High.”
Gainesville High is still alive in the playoffs, but will have to play its third-round game against Langston Hughes seriously depleted. According to multiple reports following Tuesday’s GHSA appeals hearing, only four of the 39 players who were suspended had those lifted.