Northwestern State Football Cancels Season After Player’s Death, Coach Resigns

Northwestern State College has canceled its soccer group’s season following a participant’s tragic demise.

The varsity introduced the transfer on Thursday … simply 14 days after junior security Ronnie Caldwell was shot and killed close to NSU’s campus in Louisiana.

The college mentioned in an announcement “the mental health and wellbeing of its student-athletes” was the “primary reason” for the choice.

“While our instinct was to return to the field of play following [Caldwell’s] death,” NSU President Dr. Marcus Jones mentioned, “we’ve since learned that the hurt on our team was too deep. Now it is in the best interest of our players, coaches, and staff to pause and to take this time to mourn, to heal, and to support Ronnie’s family.”

The group canceled its Oct. 14 recreation towards Nichols State instantly after Caldwell’s demise, however it suited up for its recreation towards Southeastern Louisiana per week later. It misplaced the competition, 37-20, however gamers and coaches all honored Caldwell through the matchup.

The group had 4 extra video games remaining on its schedule earlier than Thursday’s determination to forego the remainder of the yr was made.

In the meantime, NSU head coach Brad Laird revealed he was resigning from his place after holding it for the previous six years … saying he was heartbroken over Caldwell’s passing.

“Due to the loss of Ronnie and the emotional burden it has caused me, I don’t feel I can give my all to these players or this program,” Laird mentioned. “Any coach will tell you that their players become like family, so the loss of Ronnie was like losing a son. I love this program and this university and I know it will persevere and move forward with the competitive spirit that is at the core of our DNA.”

Caldwell had appeared in 11 video games final season for NSU, however hadn’t suited up this season as a consequence of a preseason harm.