Yesterday, Grambling State football players took a stand against their school and did not travel to Jackson State for their scheduled game. This prompted the schools to cancel the game, which was Jackson’s homecoming game. At first, it seemed like college students just protesting not getting paid, but according to the players, it has nothing to do with that. The players took the time to write a letter to explain their reasoning and their gripes with their school. In the letter the students discuss the deplorable conditions of the complex that they practice in saying there is mold and mildew on equipment. They even included a photo as evidence:
Besides the mold and mildew everywhere, there are water leaks from faltering in the ceilings. Many players are contracting staph infections said to be from the inadequate cleaning of the uniforms. The players were forced to pay for their own refreshments, including Gatorade and Muscle Milk, or use a water hose to drink from while practicing outside. Money from alumni donations is not going to the football program and instead the school is using it for other purposes.
It is commendable to see these players band together and take a stand for something they believe in. If all their accusations are true, then Grambling State needs to be looking in to by the NCAA, who is always ready to hand out violations. The school is failing these players who more than likely bring in most of their revenue.
