What You Need to Know
• Former Bucknell University strength and conditioning coach Mark Kulbis has been charged with aggravated hazing.
• Kulbis faces misdemeanor charges of involuntary manslaughter and reckless endangerment in the death of Calvin “CJ” Dickey Jr.
• Dickey collapsed during practice on July 10, 2024, and died two days later due to exertional rhabdomyolysis.
Mark Kulbis, the former strength and conditioning coach at Bucknell University, has been charged with aggravated hazing following the death of freshman football player Calvin “CJ” Dickey Jr. on July 10, 2024. The Pennsylvania Attorney General’s office announced that Kulbis is also facing misdemeanor charges of involuntary manslaughter and reckless endangerment. Investigators revealed that Kulbis subjected Dickey and other players to excessive physical drills, including 100 “up-downs” and multiple full-body plank exercises, despite being aware of Dickey’s Sickle Cell trait and having received training regarding safe practices. Dickey collapsed during practice and was taken to a hospital, where he died two days later from complications related to the intense exercise regimen.
Why It Matters
The charges against Mark Kulbis highlight the serious implications of hazing practices in collegiate sports, particularly following previous incidents that have led to fatalities. The aggravated hazing law in Pennsylvania was enacted in response to the 2017 hazing death of Penn State University student Tim Piazza. This case underscores the importance of enforcing safety protocols and ensuring that coaches are held accountable for the well-being of their athletes. The tragic death of Calvin Dickey Jr. raises awareness about the risks associated with physical exertion in individuals with underlying health conditions, such as Sickle Cell trait.
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