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- calendar_today October 9, 2026
Game Forfeiture Linked to Racism Concerns
Academy School District 20 announced that Air Academy forfeited its homecoming football game against Lutheran High School, originally scheduled for October 9. The decision follows concerns related to a reported racial incident involving Lutheran High at a previous game. The district emphasized that the move aimed to ensure safety after ongoing discussions with Lutheran High, but stated that "individual decisions" affected the ability to safely field a team for the game.
Background: Racism Allegations Surface
Concerns escalated following a September 24 game where a Sandy Creek High School cheerleader reported that she and her teammates had experienced racist comments and gestures during their match against Lutheran High. Although Lutheran High stated the individuals responsible for the alleged acts were not Lutheran students, the claim has prompted heightened scrutiny and the need for additional safety measures at subsequent games.
Safety Plan and Forfeiture Details
The district, in coordination with Lutheran High, developed a safety plan to keep the homecoming game on schedule. The plan included limiting visiting fans to family members of Lutheran players and increasing security. However, Air Academy ultimately cited limited coaching staff as the official reason for the forfeit, with the district noting: "Given those circumstances, Air Academy was not in a position to safely field and support a varsity football contest."
Ongoing Investigations by Schools and Associations
Lutheran High School and the Colorado High School Activities Association (CHSAA) are actively investigating the September incident. Sandy Creek High confirmed they have not yet received an update on the inquiry. CHSAA stated that penalties could follow if its review finds any bylaw violations. Lutheran High responded to the allegations by saying that racism is abhorrent and that each person is made in the image of God. The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) also stated that racism in any form is unacceptable and expressed a desire to speak with those directly involved before commenting further.
Impact and Community Response
The forfeiture has elicited strong reactions within the community. MiDian Shofner, CEO of Epitome of Black Excellence, underscored the impact on students, saying, "There are seniors in high school that never get this moment back." George Hayward, a parent of an Air Academy student, called on the community to support students during alternative celebrations. "What’s more important is the lesson that racism in all its forms is wrong," Hayward said, commending coaches for their role in the decision.
Homecoming Celebrations to Continue
Despite the cancellation of the varsity football contest, Air Academy will continue with scheduled homecoming activities. The school plans to host a flag football game against TCA starting at 7 p.m. on Friday. Additional festivities include a special flyover, parachute arrival, and a presentation from the Air Academy Class of 1976. District spokesperson Mark Belcher affirmed, "Our focus is on supporting our students and staff and providing a positive Homecoming experience for the Air Academy community."
Source: kdvr.com.
