EX-BUCKNELL COACH CHARGED OVER FRESHMAN PLAYER'S 2024 DEATH

Mark Kulbis, former strength and conditioning coach at Bucknell University, has been charged with felony aggravated hazing following the 2024 death of freshman football player Calvin "CJ" Dickey Jr. Kulbis also faces misdemeanour counts of involuntary manslaughter, reckless endangerment and hazing in connection with the case. Dickey Jr. collapsed during a Bucknell team workout and died two days later. He was 18 years old at the time of his death.

The charges against Kulbis relate to circumstances surrounding Dickey Jr.'s collapse at the team workout in 2024. The specific details of what occurred during the workout and how hazing practices may have contributed to his death have not been detailed in available reports. Bucknell University has not yet issued a public statement regarding the charges or any institutional actions taken in response to the incident.

The case represents a significant development in ongoing scrutiny of hazing practices within college sports programmes. Athletic departments across the United States have faced increased pressure to address player safety and enforce stricter protocols around conditioning sessions and team activities. The outcome of Kulbis's legal proceedings may influence how universities implement oversight of strength and conditioning staff and team training practices going forward.