The University of Georgia recently dismissed a white baseball player from their team for allegedly hurling derogatory remarks at a Black UGA football player.
Georgia officials began an investigation after receiving a report that during the No. 2-ranked Bulldogs’ 38-12 home victory over Tennessee on Saturday, Bulldogs first baseman Adam Sasser allegedly directed “racially derogatory comments” toward Georgia freshman quarterback Justin Fields. Sasser allegedly yelled, “Put the n***er in,” referring to Fields.
Wednesday’s decision followed a joint statement Monday by UGA athletics director Greg McGarity and baseball Scott Stricklin that said the university has a non-discrimination and anti-harassment policy. “While we are limited in what we can say about the incident at this time, I want to reemphasize that we do not condone discriminatory behavior.” The school also stated on Tuesday that the university’s Equal Opportunity Office was reviewing the reported incident.
The situation came to light after another student, Klarissa Gulebian, shared the incident in a Facebook post. She said the baseball player continued to shout derogatory remarks at Fields even when other students asked him to stop. Gulebian said that’s when she asked a police officer to intervene.
“Everyone else around him wasn’t saying anything, just laughing at the situation,” Gulebian told ABC News. “So, I involved the police officer and told him there was somebody using racial slurs.”
Sasser has since issued an apology for his actions on Twitter Wednesday evening and said he’s made amends with Fields.
“First and foremost, I want to apologize for my actions at the football game on Saturday,” the first baseman wrote on Twitter. “I totally understand why my actions were offensive and I am deeply sorry for any pain or distress this has caused anyone. Secondly, I would like to apologize to the University of Georgia, my teammates and my coaches for the past 3 years and say that I am extremely sorry I have put you all in this position and wish nothing but the best for everyone.”
Sasser continued, “I deeply regret disappointing each of you [parents, extended family and friends] and will do everything in my power to never disappoint any of you again.” He added, “I spoke with Justin last night and we are on good terms!”
Baseball coach Scott Stricklin stated, “I expect every member of our team to behave at all times in a way that upholds the highest standards and values of the University of Georgia, and it is disappointing when that doesn’t happen.”
