MURFREESBORO, N.C.  -  Chowan University Athletics formally issues a public apology following an incident that ultimately concluded the Delta State at Chowan football contest on Saturday, September 9, 2023. 
 
"Speaking on behalf of the entire Chowan University Department of Athletics, we would like to formally apologize to the Delta State University football players, their coaching staff, fans, and parents for the deplorable behavior that some of our football student-athletes chose to exhibit on Saturday in the final minutes of the fourth quarter," stated Patrick Mashuda, Director of Athletics. "The behavior shown by some is completely unacceptable and not indicative of the type of program that best represents Chowan University, the athletic department, and the football program." 
 
Mashuda continued, "We have always prided ourselves on providing a great game atmosphere in a safe environment for fans and teams alike. We are committed to upholding the penalties that the Gulf South Conference has enacted as well as reviewing ways to ensure that this type of incident does not happen in the future."
 
"After a thorough investigation by the Gulf South Conference and members of Chowan University administration, swift and decisive action was taken to ensure all parties involved in the incident were held accountable. I would like to thank Gulf South Commissioner, Matt Wilson, and Head Coach Paul Johnson for assisting us in the investigation," concluded Mashuda. 
 
"First and foremost, I want to emphasize that what transpired on the field does not align with the values and principles we hold dear at Chowan University. Our institution stands for sportsmanship, discipline, and respect, both on and off the field. The behavior displayed by some of our players during the incident with Delta State was completely unacceptable and inexcusable," said Head Coach Paul Johnson. 
 
"I take full responsibility for the actions of our team, as it is my duty to instill in our players the importance of maintaining composure, even in the heat of competition. I deeply regret that I was unable to prevent this incident from happening, and for that, I am truly sorry," said Johnson. 
 
Addressing Delta State directly, Johnson stated, "I also want to extend my apologies to the Delta State program and their coaching staff. What happened during the game should never have occurred, and we understand the impact it may have had on your team. We respect you as competitors, and this incident does not reflect the level of sportsmanship we aim to uphold." 

To conclude the investigation, Chowan will conduct a football game management and security review for submission to the Gulf South Conference.