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NCHSAA Disqualifies Mallard Creek Relay, NFL Star Decries “Robbery”

5/18/2026

Summary

Story summary

North Carolina High School Athletic Association (NCHSAA) disqualified Mallard Creek High School’s 4×400 relay after Nyan Brown made a hand gesture, costing a third title.
Principal Dr. Jared Thompson appealed Monday, but NCHSAA said the decision is final.
Coach Samuel Willoughby claimed Brown received no warning, contradicting officials who said one was issued post-flex.
National Football League (NFL) star Robert Griffin III called the ruling a robbery, drawing national attention.

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Story summary

North Carolina High School Athletic Association (NCHSAA) disqualified Mallard Creek High School’s 4×400 relay after Nyan Brown made a hand gesture, costing a third title.
Principal Dr. Jared Thompson appealed Monday, but NCHSAA said the decision is final.
Coach Samuel Willoughby claimed Brown received no warning, contradicting officials who said one was issued post-flex.
National Football League (NFL) star Robert Griffin III called the ruling a robbery, drawing national attention.