Bronson McClelland will miss the next two games and has been removed as one of the captains for the Katy football team effective immediately.
Not because of injury but due to video surfacing after a 35-30 victory over Tompkins of him using a derogatory racial slur. The video was made on SnapChat, was recorded on the screen and reposted on Twitter.
The original Twitter post by Tompkins player Tunmise Adeleye that had a recording of the Snapchat video was removed by Friday morning but had already gained traction on social media by midnight.
On Friday, McClelland took to social media to issue a statement.
"After last night's win over the Tompkins Falcons, I made comments on social media that were not appropriate under any circumstances," McClelland wrote. "Being in a leadership role, I put my family, teammates, coaches, school and community in a bad light."
VYPE reached out to Katy coach Gary Joseph for a statement but has not had its phone call returned at this time.
McClelland went on to say him and his parents met with Gary Joseph on Friday to discuss his actions. The decision was made for him to no longer to be a team captain and sit out the next two District 19-6A games.
"Giving me time to focus my attention on what it means to be a Katy Tiger."
McClelland will miss games against Morton Ranch and Seven Lakes. The junior quarterback's earliest return can come on October 25 against Cinco Ranch.
McClelland's full statement can be read below.
pic.twitter.com/COZsaiH4IL
— Bronson Mcclelland (@bronson1201) October 4, 2019
Katy ISD released a statement to VYPE as well about the incident.
Official Statement from Katy ISD: "On Friday, October 4, 2019, Katy ISD Administration and the Katy ISD Police Department were informed of the inappropriate behavior and language of a student on the Katy High School Varsity Football Team. Campus administration, Katy ISD police and local law enforcement thoroughly investigated the video incident. The student responsible will face disciplinary consequences in accordance with the Katy ISD Discipline Management Student Code of Conduct and Athletic Code of Conduct. However, it is important to note there are other related incidents that continue to be under investigation that would lead to additional consequences for any student found to be involved. This type of behavior and language is not in line with the values of our District, staff and community who work hard every day to instill exemplary character and behavior in all Katy ISD students. The District is committed to keeping students safe, both physically and emotionally. It is our highest priority."
Katy ISD also confirmed to VYPE that a letter had been sent home to parents at Katy and Tompkins High School.
Photo provided by Finley Bizjack
Photo provided by Finley Bizjack
Photo provided by Finley Bizjack
