Field Marking Controversy Sparks Viral Backlash
Winston-Salem State University’s athletic department is facing scrutiny after a video showing improperly painted hash marks at Bowman Gray Stadium went viral on social media. The footage, which has garnered millions of views, captured a stadium worker using an imprecise, manual method to measure and paint the field lines ahead of a recent college football game.
Athletic Director Issues Formal Apology
Following the widespread circulation of the video, Winston-Salem State University Athletic Director Eric Burns issued a public apology on Tuesday. In his statement, Burns acknowledged that the field preparations did not meet the university’s standards and accepted full responsibility for the oversight.
“The field markings at our last home game fell short of WSSU athletics’ standards, and I take responsibility,” Burns stated. “We’ve secured additional field preparation support and implemented new checks to ensure this is addressed before our next home game. Our student-athletes and Ram Nation deserve the highest standard, and we are committed to meeting it every time.”
Stadium History
Bowman Gray Stadium, located in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, has a long history as a multi-purpose venue. While it is widely recognized for hosting NASCAR-sanctioned stock car racing events since 1949, it also serves as the home field for the Winston-Salem State University Rams football team. The field is situated within the stadium’s quarter-mile track.