Dozens of Gainesville high school football players suspended for on-field fights have been cleared to play in the state playoff quarterfinals.
The Georgia High School Association confirmed Monday night that the Red Elephants will be able to have all their players available against Langston Hughes High School.
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“Our kids have been given the opportunity to continue their seasons while also working hard to ensure we do our best when we learn the season will continue,” Gainesville football coach Josh Niblett said in a statement. “To God be the glory and go to the big red.”
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On November 21, a fight broke out during a game between Gainesville High School and Brunswick High School, resulting in the GHSA suspending 38 Gainesville players. Gainesville was leading 42-0 in the third quarter when a Brunswick player reportedly ripped off the helmets of two Gainesville students and punched one of them. The sidelines cleared as dozens of players took part.
Gainesville later moved to temporarily lift the suspension, which a judge granted. The GHSA postponed the quarterfinals while appealing the decision, but has now decided to let the competition go ahead.
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Gainesville athletic director Adam Lindsay said he was proud of the players and coaching staff for staying focused during a “challenging and unpredictable week.”
“The Red Elephants are ready to get back on the field and represent our community in the state playoffs. We encourage everyone at Red Elephants Nation to come out and support the team this Friday,” Lindsay said.
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The GHSA confirmed the Class 5A quarterfinal matchup between Gainesville and Langston Hughes will be played Friday, a week later than originally scheduled. The rest of the Class 5A playoff schedule is also changing.
The winner of Gainesville vs. Langston Hughes will face Rome High School on Thursday, December 11th. Another semifinal between Roswell and Thomas County Central will also be held on Dec. 11.
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The Class 5A state championship game originally scheduled to be played at Mercedes-Benz Stadium will be moved to Dec. 17. The Class 6A state championship game will be moved to Dec. 16.
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