What was thought to be an innocent music video shoot for a rapper featuring the Florida A&M University football team completely ended up backfiring.
After the release of Real Boston Richey’s video titled “Send a Blitz,” Florida A&M decided to suspend all football-related activities until further notice. The reason is that they filmed the rap video in the team’s locker room without authorization and it contained explicit lyrics. Rattlers coach Willie Simmons announced the move in a statement Friday.
“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-Powell 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 expressions, this football team (as ambassadors of Florida A&M University) has a responsibility to protect the University’s image.”
He continued, “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.“
RELATED: Ouch: Georgia Football Team Declines Joe Biden’s White House Invitation
Simmons reportedly told The Associated Press on Saturday that the team facility, equipment room along with access to the stadium field were off-limits to all players until he and the administration could sort out how to handle this situation and get to the bottom of who was involved in the video shoot. However, there’s one exception. Players who need medical treatment from doctors and athletic trainers, will be able to have access to the weight room.
“We’ll determine at that point if more severe penalties need to be handed down,” Simmons told the outlet.
In another Saturday morning interview with Tallahassee Democrat he said, “Kids are going to be kids, but I am also trying to help them understand to be super mindful of your involvement and decisions,” he said before reiterating; “We will make a determination to address those (involved) individually or the entire team.”
Press Play Below For More: