Fines, suspensions likely to result from Robinson football incident

Posted Dec 10, 2012 by Bill Ward

Updated Dec 10, 2012 at 12:36 PM

Hillsborough County athletic director Lanness Robinson says stiff fines and suspensions are possible for the Robinson High football players and coaches involved in the incident at the conclusion of Friday’s Class 5A state semifinals game against Tallahassee Godby on Friday.

Florida High School Athletics Association spokesman Corey Sobers confirmed to the Tampa Tribune a report was filed by the officials who worked the game at Jack Peters Field. No timetable has been given on when a decision will be reached but Robinson said it could come as early as today.

Godby won the game 24-20 but the Knights were driving for what they hoped would be a go-ahead touchdown. With no timeouts remaining and about 10 seconds left on the clock, Knights quarterback Zain Gilmore hit receiver Austin Eads on a completion at what looked to be close to the first down near the Godby 11-yard line.

But instead of stopping the clock to call for a measurement, the referees apparently believed the catch was made short of the first down and allowed the clock to continue to count down to zero. With about three seconds to go, Godby players stormed the field to celebrate while several Robinson players and coaches screamed for time to stop for a measurement.

That’s when things briefly got out of control, with several Knights players getting in the faces of the referees and using profanity. Eventually, order was restored by Lanness Robinson and Knights coaches, but it was clear by then a report was likely going to be filed by the referees to the FHSAA regarding the incident. Laness Robinson said he saw no physical contact between the players, coaches and referees but the report could state otherwise

Robinson said the parents of all players in the county sign a form they are individually responsible to pay any fine handed out buy the FHSAA. Robinson said the incident could even result in school suspensions. Any senior player not paying their fine can have their transcripts withheld by the county.

Robinson head coach Mike DePue said he was aware the report had been filed but was waiting to see its findings before commenting.