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GHSA Upholds 35 Gainesville Suspensions, Hits Brunswick With 41 Bans and Postseason Probation After Playoff Brawl

Gainesville is weighing legal action as the board enforced its leave-the-bench bylaw and left the Red Elephants shorthanded for Friday’s quarterfinal.

Overview

  • Four Gainesville players were reinstated after the virtual appeal, while 35 remain out for the Class 5A quarterfinal against Langston Hughes.
  • GHSA also suspended 41 Brunswick players, fined the school $5,000, and placed the program on 2026–27 probation that bars postseason play.
  • Both schools were fined $5,000, and GHSA emphasized the rule requiring suspensions for players who enter the field from the sideline during an altercation.
  • Gainesville officials say many players moved to separate teammates, have retained counsel, and are exploring a court injunction to allow participation.
  • Video and officials’ accounts cite Brunswick players ripping off helmets and striking opponents; Glynn County leaders said two players could face school discipline or possible criminal charges.