EDINBURG, TX — The UIL state executive committee has upheld Edinburg ISD's extracurricular suspension of Emmanuel Duron, according to the Houston Chronicle
The disciplinary actions follow an incident on Dec 3. where Duron tackled a referee. The moment was caught on camera and has since gone viral.
“I’d like to say I’m sorry for what happened to my coaches and to my family and to the UIL,” said Duron, according to the Chronicle.
Additionally, the UIL placed Edinburg High Football Coach, J.J. Leija, on probation through the 2021-22 school year. All Edinburg ISD school's UIL programs were also placed on a two-year probation through 2022-23 school year.
According to The Chronicle, any other incidents that occur during this probationary period could result in more severe sanctions.
Edinburg had qualified for playoffs, but the school district has since been removed from the postseason.
The school district expressed its support of the UIL's decision during the Zoom conference.
“We, as a district, understand that it is a very unfortunate incident for the team as the student and the coaching staff worked very hard throughout the year for the season,” said Edinburg CISD superintendent Gilbert Garza, the Chronicle reports.
“But it is important that our district abides by the rules and regulations set for by the UIL as is expected for all districts throughout the state. Our district’s leadership agrees with the committee that such incidents are not acceptable and will not be tolerated.” he added.
Committee member Daryl Wade addressed Duron after the penalties were issued.
“You are a young man,” Wade said, according to the Chronicle. “You have an opportunity to learn from your mistakes, and I hope that you’ll take everything that’s happening today into consideration. You are a young man. Good luck to you.”
