Former Coach Charged in Hazing-Related Death

A former college football coach is facing felony charges related to the hazing death of a player. Mark Klubis, previously a strength and conditioning coach at Bucknell University, has been charged with aggravated hazing. Additionally, he faces misdemeanor charges including involuntary manslaughter and reckless endangerment in connection with the death of Calvin “CJ” Dickey Jr.

Calvin Dickey, who was only 18, tragically passed away on July 12, 2024—just two days after collapsing during a team training session.

The Pennsylvania Attorney General’s office indicated that Klubis ordered Dickey and other players to perform 100 up-downs and body planks, disregarding warnings from other coaches who deemed the practice unsafe.

Dickey had a sickle cell trait and was reportedly struggling during practice. However, Klubis, who was the only coach present, failed to call for help until Dickey had already lost consciousness.

Further investigation revealed that Dickey’s death resulted from a combination of his sickle cell trait and excessive exertion during training, leading to a condition called exertional rhabdomyolysis, as determined by the autopsy.

Klubis surrendered to authorities and was arraigned on the charges, with bail set at $10,000. A preliminary hearing is slated for July 28.

The attorney general’s office stated that Dickey’s death was preventable, framing the situation as a case of intentional hazing carried out by the coach.

Dickey’s family previously filed a lawsuit against Bucknell University, claiming negligence and wrongful death in connection to the incident.

In response, Klubis’ attorney, Barbara Zemrock, expressed her condolences for Dickey’s family but maintained that her client had no role or responsibility in the tragic event. She emphasized that the training program was appropriate and aligned with coaching standards, suggesting that further evidence would demonstrate Klubis’ innocence.