Florida A&M College (FAMU) is dealing with public backlash and league penalties after the Southwestern Athletic Convention (SWAC) issued a $10,000 superb and a proper reprimand over inappropriate remarks made by the varsity’s longtime soccer recreation announcer.
The feedback, directed at Alabama State College’s beloved Honey Beez dance line throughout final weekend’s matchup, have sparked conversations about respect, inclusivity, and sportsmanship inside HBCU tradition.
SWAC Points Wonderful and Suspension
In a press release launched on October 1, 2025, the SWAC cited violations of its Ideas and Requirements of Sportsmanship for “inappropriate feedback and invective language” used over the public-address system at Bragg Memorial Stadium.
As a part of the league’s disciplinary motion, the convention levied a $10,000 superb towards FAMU and suspended public handle announcer Joe Bullard for 2 video games.
The SWAC’s swift response drew assist from many throughout the HBCU neighborhood, with alumni and followers applauding the convention for upholding an ordinary of respect at athletic occasions.
The Remarks and Public Response
Throughout halftime of the FAMU vs. ASU soccer recreation, Bullard made feedback that many discovered disparaging towards the Honey Beez, notably singling out their look in a approach that offended followers and dancers alike. Clips of the remarks shortly unfold throughout social media, producing outrage and widespread criticism.
In a written apology, Bullard acknowledged that what he meant as “lighthearted banter” got here throughout as disrespectful. “I acknowledge the harm my phrases brought on and sincerely apologize to the Honey Beez, Alabama State College, and your complete HBCU neighborhood,” he mentioned.
FAMU management additionally launched a press release condemning the remarks and promising to overview inside insurance policies to stop comparable incidents sooner or later.
Highlight on the Honey Beez
The Honey Beez, based in 2004, have earned nationwide acclaim for his or her high-energy performances and their dedication to difficult stereotypes on the planet of collegiate dance. The group is extensively celebrated for selling physique positivity, illustration, and inclusivity at ASU sporting occasions and all through the HBCU dance neighborhood.
Supporters of the Honey Beez had been fast to level out that the incident underscores why illustration issues — and why these in positions of affect, together with game-day announcers, should be held to greater requirements of respect.
Cultural Accountability in HBCU Athletics
This controversy highlights the significance of sportsmanship as a mirrored image of institutional values. Whereas spirited rivalries are a trademark of HBCU soccer tradition, the SWAC’s determination reinforces that language utilized in stadiums can have far-reaching penalties.
Many alumni and college students have referred to as on FAMU to supply further coaching for announcers and different workers who assist form the game-day expertise, guaranteeing future commentary uplifts relatively than demeans.
Transferring Ahead
FAMU introduced it would cooperate absolutely with the SWAC’s directives and discover methods to strengthen inside oversight of its game-day operations. The college expressed its dedication to creating an surroundings that celebrates HBCU traditions with out compromising dignity or inclusivity.
Because the soccer season continues, the incident serves as a reminder that phrases matter — particularly in areas meant to showcase the satisfaction and expertise of HBCU college students and alumni.
HBCU Buzz will proceed to observe this creating story and share updates as FAMU implements any coverage modifications or if additional motion is taken by the convention.
