FAMU was officially reprimanded and fined by the SWAC following the controversy surrounding comments made by its longtime band announcer during Saturday’s football game against Alabama State University. The SWAC announced that Florida A&M University will face a $10,000 fine and that its public address announcer will be suspended for the next two games.According to the league office, the actions fall under the SWAC Principles and Standards of Sportsmanship. The governing body said it issued the reprimand in direct response to “inappropriate comments and invective language” broadcast over the public address system during the contest. The statement underscored that such behavior will always be met with swift and firm action, pointing to a “zero tolerance” approach toward unsportsmanlike conduct.The reprimand specifically addresses comments made by Joe Bullard, the veteran voice of the Marching “100.” Bullard drew widespread criticism after making remarks about Alabama State’s plus-sized dance team, the Honey Beez, at halftime. Clips of the exchange quickly spread online, sparking national discussion within HBCU circles and beyond.Bullard issued a statement last Sunday, taking responsibility for his words and offering apologies to the Honey Beez, Alabama State University, and FAMU supporters. He admitted that what he intended as lighthearted banter instead came across as hurtful and disrespectful.
