FLORIDA A&M SUSPENDS FOOTBALL ACTIVITY AFTER UNAUTHORIZED RAP VIDEO SURFACES

Photo Credit- Micheal Rivera per Flickr

Florida A&M University Head Football Coach Willie Simmons has suspended all football activities

after the release of a rap video that was filmed in the locker room without authorization.

Simmons released a statement after receiving word of the video which features the song"Send a Blitz" by Rapper Real Boston Richey.

Coach Willie Simmons' full statement:

Earlier today, it was brought to my attention that a rap video was shot by a prominent rapper in the football locker room of Galimore-Power Fieldhouse without proper authorization.

The video contained graphic language that is not consistent with Florida A&M's core values, principles, and beliefs, and an internal investigation is underway to determine who authorized the use of not only the athletic facility at Galimore-Powell but also licensed apparel that potentially violates university branding and licensing agreements.

Although I am a proud proponent of free speech and support all forms of musical expression, this football team (as ambassadors of Florida A&M University) has a responsibility to protect the University's image. As a result of this unfortunate situation, as head football coach, I am effectively suspending all football-related activities until further notice.

It is a privilege to wear the Orange and Green, and as a football program, our young men have failed to live up to the standard set before us. They will all learn from this mishap, and we will continue to work hard every day to become the best version of ourselves and continue to make Rattler Nation proud.

The song containing “graphic language” contributed to the decision to suspend all football

activities, but the unauthorized use of the locker room and apparel were the deciding

factors.

Simmons has been the head coach of the Rattlers since the 2018 season, and has compiled a record of 33-12.

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