Parents of football player who died speak out after charges filed against ex-coach
Summary
The parents of Calvin "C.J." Dickey Jr., a football player who died after a 2024 practice at Bucknell University, spoke after criminal charges were filed against former coach Mark Kulbis. Kulbis faces charges including aggravated hazing and involuntary manslaughter for making Dickey Jr. do extreme workouts despite knowing about his sickle-cell trait condition.Key Facts
- Mark Kulbis, former Bucknell strength and conditioning coach, is charged with felony aggravated hazing and misdemeanor involuntary manslaughter, reckless endangerment, and hazing.
- Calvin "C.J." Dickey Jr. died after a football practice where he was made to do 100 "up-downs" despite struggling visibly during drills.
- Dickey Jr. had sickle-cell trait, a condition that makes intense exercise more risky, which the coach knew about before the workout.
- NCAA rules require all new athletes to be tested for sickle-cell trait and to have proper precautions during exercise.
- The coach only called for help after Dickey Jr. passed out, and the player died two days later in the hospital.
- Kulbis left Bucknell about six months after the death, and his lawyer denies responsibility.
- The Dickey family formed the C.J. Dickey Foundation to raise awareness about sickle-cell trait and filed a civil lawsuit against Bucknell University.
- The family hopes the case will lead to better education and safety in sports programs to prevent similar tragedies.
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