Texas high school football power DeSoto has apologized after three of its four team captains declined to shake hands with St. Thomas Aquinas players before the Eagles’ season opener in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
The incident quickly spread beyond Texas and Florida after video of the coin toss circulated on social media and drew widespread criticism. With the nationally televised matchup featuring two nationally prominent programs. With DeSoto representing Texas and Aquinas representing Florida, the contest was one of the country’s most anticipated opening-week games.
Claude Mathis Says Players Faced Racist Comments
DeSoto coach Claude Mathis told The Dallas Morning News that his team had been subjected to racist comments before the game. High School On SI has not independently verified Mathis’ account.
Three of DeSoto’s four captains declined to shake hands during the pregame coin toss. Texas Tech commit SaRod Baker was the only DeSoto captain who shook hands with the St. Thomas Aquinas captains. The moment was captured live by ESPN’s cameras…