Mark Kulbis, a former strength and conditioning coach at Bucknell University, faces grave legal issues following the tragic death of freshman football player Calvin “CJ” Dickey Jr. The 18-year-old student lost his life in July 2024 after collapsing at his first football practice, leading to significant charges against Kulbis.
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On July 6, 2024, the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office announced that Kulbis had been charged with felony aggravated hazing, as well as misdemeanour counts of involuntary manslaughter, reckless endangerment, and hazing. These charges arise from the circumstances surrounding Dickey’s passing, which has drawn widespread attention and concern regarding athlete safety and hazing practices in collegiate sports.
Prosecutors allege that Kulbis directed Dickey to engage in an exhaustive series of calisthenics despite being aware of the young athlete’s medical condition. Calvin Dickey Jr. had a sickle cell trait, which can complicate physical exertion and increase the risk of severe health issues during strenuous activities. Tragically, Dickey collapsed during the rigorous workout, just two days before his untimely death.
The demands placed on Dickey included 100 “up-downs” and extensive plank exercises, which prosecutors described as excessive and inappropriate for training. Allegations state that Kulbis ignored warnings regarding the potential dangers of such exercises for athletes with sickle cell traits, despite having received training on this specific condition from the university.
As the only coach present in the training room, Kulbis did not summon help until Dickey lost consciousness, according to prosecutors. Following this incident, the football player was rushed to a local hospital but sadly passed away two days later, on July 12. An autopsy revealed that his death resulted from a combination of the strenuous exercises, his underlying sickle cell trait, his weight, and a condition known as exertional rhabdomyolysis.
Attorney General Dave Sunday lamented the loss, stating, “This is an extraordinary tragedy, worsened by the fact that C.J.’s death was preventable.” The case has raised alarms about the ongoing issues of hazing practices in college sports and the responsibilities of coaches to ensure the welfare of their players.
Calvin Dickey Jr., originally from Tampa, Florida, was remembered fondly in his obituary. Described as a “loving son, brother, and friend,” he was awarded a football scholarship to Bucknell University and aspired to have a career in pharmacy, showcasing his ambition and dedication to both his studies and sport.
Following the announcement of charges against him, Kulbis surrendered to law enforcement on the morning of July 6, where he was formally arraigned. His bail has been set at £10,000, but details concerning his plea or any legal representation are currently unclear.
The aggravated hazing charge introduced against Kulbis was a response to another tragic incident involving hazing, relating to the death of Tim Piazza, a student at Pennsylvania State University in 2017. This reflects a growing awareness and legislative action surrounding the issues of hazing within academic institutions across the United States.
As the investigation continues, the case underscores the ongoing dialogue about athlete safety and the critical need for educational institutions to provide supportive and safe environments for their student-athletes. The tragic loss of Calvin “CJ” Dickey Jr. has shone a spotlight on the responsibilities of coaches and administrators in safeguarding the health and wellbeing of young athletes.