Northwestern State has canceled the remainder of their football season and head coach Brad Laird has resigned after Junior Safety Ronnie Caldwell was killed two weeks ago. In a Natchitoches Parish Journal podcast, NSU President Marcus Jones said several players expressed difficulty with Caldwell’s death.
“And not mentally prepared to continue to play because they were just still struggling with the loss of someone that was close and dear to them,” said Jones.
With four games left in the season, the Demons had yet to win any of their six games and opted not to play their October 14th game against Nicholls, two days after Caldwell’s death.
Jones was asked if there were other players and coaches who wanted to finish the season noting that the cancellation impacts the Southland Conference and revenue for Natchitoches.
“The feedback that we’ve been provided with is that there were not enough players who wanted to get out on the field and play and as a result of that we decided to do what we’ve done and cancel the remaining games,” said Jones.
NSU was scheduled to play at McNeese State’s homecoming Saturday.
Jones also accepted Laird’s resignation this week and said in addition to his teammates, the death of Caldwell has emotionally impacted coaches also.
“This loss has taken a toll on Brad as well. It was a decision that Brad reached and I respect his decision,” said Jones.
A former Demon player has been charged with Obstruction of Justice in connection with the shooting but to date, no one has been charged with murder in Caldwell’s death.
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