Amid Student Protests, Gallaudet Postpones Today's Game

Amid student protests over the appointment of a new university president -- including football players blocking the gates to campus -- Gallaudet has postponed its home football game scheduled for today at 1 p.m.

Bison Coach Ed Hottle said his team hasn't practiced since Tuesday, and even if the campus standoff between students and administrators were to end, Hottle said he wouldn't feel comfortable putting an unprepared team on the field. The campus has been closed since early Wednesday morning, when members of the football team joined the protests calling for the resignation of incoming president Jane K. Fernandes by blocking the gates to campus.

Hottle said he hopes to reschedule the game with Williamson Trade School for sometime in November. Next Saturday is Gallaudet's homecoming, with a game scheduled against Walter Reed.

Playing a primarily junior varsity schedule, the Bison are 4-1, and coming off their first loss in 14 games since Hottle took over the program prior to last season. Hottle said the program is still on track to return to Division III status next season.

-- Alan Goldenbach