Northwestern State University has announced that they will not play the remainder of the 2023 football season. This includes Saturday’s scheduled game at McNeese. The game was scheduled as homecoming for the Cowboys.
The cancellation comes after Northwestern State player Ronnie Caldwell was tragically killed several weeks ago. The team has been affected greatly by the tragedy and the school cited mental health and wellbeing of the student athletes as the reason for the cancellation. The school also announced that they have accepted the resignation of head coach Brad Laird, who cited the emotional burden of the situation as reason to step down.
McNeese President Dr. Daryl Burckel had this to say about the announcement: “We support (Northwestern State) President Jones’ decision. I know this wasn’t an easy one but it’s one that’s in the best interest of the Demon football program. Our hearts go out to them.”
McNeese will still hold the homecoming parade tonight. The other homecoming festivities will be postponed and will take place during the week of the Houston Christian game on November 11th.