Tony Annese, the football coach for reigning Division II champion
“No matter how minor the actions may seem, young people need to understand that there are consequences for their actions. We will address these concerns and continue to have a strong, positive football program that represents Ferris State University on and off the field.”
Ferris State players also lit cigars inside the stadium after winning the school’s first national title in 2021, which resulted in a fine and warning to not do it again.
“The inappropriate conduct associated with this action will not be tolerated at any NCAA Division II championship,” Mountain East Conference commissioner Reid Amos said in a statement.
The university’s appeal of the suspension for Annese, who is entering his 12th season at the Michigan college in 2023, was denied by the NCAA.
Ferris State also was fined $2,500 by the NCAA and charged $15,383 by the McKinney ISD for cleaning and repairs to the locker room after the victory over Colorado School of Mines.
“I continue to be proud of the Ferris State University Football program and Coach Annese,” athletic director Steve Brockelbank said in a statement. “I understand the concerns raised by the NCAA and we accept the responsibility for our actions and we will work to ensure this does not happen again in the future.”
