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The Grambling State University football players who boycotted their game Saturday said they are returning to practice and competition this week, but “have not forgotten the situation and how we’ve gotten here.” The athletes said in a statement obtained by USA Today that they made the decision after consulting with the former head coach Doug Williams, whose firing helped prompt the protest. The players were also revolting against dilapidated facilities, lack of team staff and resources, and excessive travel to games. Jim Bernhard, a Fortune 500 CEO in Baton Rouge, said he would "ensure" the university's football facilities are updated, the statement says. Administrators say they are trying to balance athletes’ concerns with a serious lack of funding at the historically black university. The Southwestern Athletic Conference may impose a fine on Grambling State over the forfeit.
