A Michigan high school is responding to an incident involving a football player who suffered a spinal injury during a game.
In a junior varsity match on Thursday, a larger player from Kalamazoo Central jumped on a Lakeshore player who was down on the ground.
The mother of the affected 15-year-old reported that her son sustained vertebral fractures in two different places.
“Since Friday, our staff has been in discussions with both schools. Kalamazoo Central is taking this very seriously—they’ve acted quickly and decisively,” stated the Michigan High School Athletics Association (MHSAA). “Although the Student Privacy Act limits our ability to share specific responses, they have taken actions beyond what is typically required for a serious behavior violation in sports.”
“Our institution manages matters internally, and we can provide further details if we choose,” they added.
Kalamazoo Public Schools referred to the player’s actions as “poor behavior” in a statement.
“The incident during the junior varsity football game at Kalamazoo Central on September 19 involved students exhibiting unacceptable conduct toward players from the opposing team.”
“This kind of behavior does not align with the values of sportsmanship, respect, and integrity that we expect from our student-athletes, coaches, and the school community as a whole,” the statement continued.
“After the play, students from Kalamazoo Central voiced their disapproval of the Lakeshore players on the ground,” wrote Lakeshore Public Schools Principal Greg Edding in a letter to staff and families. “This was a blatant, unprovoked breach of rules and proper sportsmanship, resulting in injury to one of the Lakeshore students.”
“We wish for a swift recovery for the Lakeshore athlete and are keeping in touch with their family about the situation. We’ve also implemented support measures to help our student-athletes continue their education during this time.”
“The incident, which was recorded and circulated extensively on social media, is entirely unacceptable and has no place in student athletics. The superintendents of Kalamazoo Public Schools have enforced substantial disciplinary measures in accordance with student policies and conduct codes.”
“Following the incident, both varsity teams gathered before their game on September 19 to pray for the injured player, showcasing sportsmanship and compassion.”
In an interview, Courtney Mims, the injured player’s mother, shared her anxiety immediately following the event.
“Once I saw it click on video, I had to go there. I’ve never felt anything like it.”
“These are just high school boys, only 15 years old. Games are crucial for them. What happened—taking someone’s future opportunities—is heartbreaking.”
The injured player is anticipated to make a full recovery.
