GHSA hands down post-season ban to Brunswick for involvement in fight during game vs Gainesville

ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) — The Georgia High School Athletic Association (GHSA) handed down its punishment to Brunswick for the team’s involvement in a fight that broke out during the playoff game against Gainesville.

Brunswick High School will face a one-year post season ban. They said 41 players were also suspended. Like Gainesville, the school was fined $5,000.

RELATED: 35 Gainesville High players still suspended after high school football fight appeal

Gainesville initially had 39 players suspended. They appealed that and the board agreed to reduce it to 35 players.

The shortened game last week resulted in a win for Gainesville. They face No. 2-ranked Langston Hughes in a quarterfinals matchup. Brunswick’s season is over.

During Gainesville’s appeal on Tuesday, the Brunswick athletic director took responsibility for the fight and defended Gainesville’s appeal.

“We have a lot of soul-searching to do over the next few months,” he said.

RELATED: 39 Gainesville High School football players suspended after massive fight during playoff game

“Brunswick High School provided the GHSA with all available game film, as well as detailed lists identifying players who entered the field, those who actively engaged in the altercation, and those who remained on the sideline as instructed,” the school’s principal Slade Turner said in a statement.

“At Brunswick High School, we take pride in how our students represent our school and community. What occurred during the game does not align with the expectations we set for our athletes or the example we work to model. This situation gives us an opportunity to reaffirm the values that guide our programs and to continue building a culture that reflects the true character of Brunswick High.”