Full Breakdown
Colorado University Fined for Anti-Mormon Chants During BYU Game
10/2/2025, 6:09:02 AM
Incident Overview: Derogatory Chants at Folsom Field
The Big 12 Conference has imposed a $50,000 fine on the University of Colorado Boulder following derogatory chants directed at Brigham Young University (BYU) during a football game on September 27, 2025. The chants, which included phrases such as "F--- the Mormons," were reported from the student section during BYU's 24-21 victory at Folsom Field. This incident marks a significant breach of the conference's standards for sportsmanship and respect.
Official Responses and Apologies
Big 12 Commissioner Brett Yormark condemned the chants, stating, "Hateful and discriminatory language has no home in the Big 12 Conference." He emphasized the conference's zero-tolerance policy for such behavior, despite acknowledging Colorado's subsequent apology. Colorado's Chancellor Justin Schwartz and Athletic Director Rick George also issued a joint statement expressing their disappointment, declaring that the behavior does not align with the university's values of respect and inclusion. They affirmed that individuals responsible for the chants would be held accountable under the university's fan code of conduct.
Head Coach Deion Sanders publicly apologized on behalf of the university, asserting, "That's not indicative of who we are. Our student body, our kids are phenomenal." He suggested that the individuals involved were likely intoxicated, further distancing the broader community from the actions of a few.
Broader Context: A Pattern of Religious Discrimination
This incident is not isolated; similar anti-Mormon chants have been reported at various universities, including the University of Oregon and the University of Southern California, highlighting a troubling trend in college sports. Senator Mike Lee, a BYU alumnus, criticized the chants as "hours upon hours of religious slurs and bigotry," calling for greater accountability from host schools.
Impact and Future Measures
The Big 12's decision to fine Colorado sets a precedent for addressing inappropriate fan behavior in college athletics. In light of the incident, Colorado's athletic department plans to enhance educational initiatives aimed at promoting inclusivity and respect among fans. The university has reiterated its commitment to creating a welcoming environment for all attendees at sporting events.
Verbatim Quotes
- “hateful and discriminatory language has no home in the Big 12 Conference.” — Brett Yormark, Big 12 Commissioner
- “The University of Colorado Boulder strongly condemns the use of expletives and religious slurs by individuals in the stands during the recent football game against BYU.” — Justin Schwartz and Rick George, CU Boulder Chancellor and Athletic Director
- “That’s not indicative of who we are. Our student body, our kids are phenomenal,” — Deion Sanders, Head Coach, CU Boulder
Conclusion: A Call for Accountability
The incident at Folsom Field serves as a reminder of the need for accountability in college sports. As universities strive to foster environments of respect and inclusion, the actions of a few can tarnish the reputation of an entire community. Colorado's leadership has committed to reviewing policies regarding fan behavior to prevent future occurrences and ensure that all fans feel welcome and safe at athletic events.
