DeSoto (TX) football issues apology after video of handshake snub goes viral

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The social media criticism has been aplenty and widespread for one elite Texas high school football program.

DeSoto, which was ranked inside the USA TODAY Super 25 last week, is under fire after the team's captains refused to shake the hands of St. Thomas Aquinas (FL) players during the pregame coin toss in a game that was nationally televised on ESPN2. Only one player did — four-star Texas Tech running back commit SaRod Baker.

"DeSoto Football has addressed the incident that occurred at the St. Thomas Aquinas football game," a statement from the program's X account read. "We view this as an opportunity for our young men to learn and grow from their mistakes. We would like to formally apologize to the St. Thomas Aquinas community, coaching staff, and football team for what occurred.

"We take full responsibility for the conduct of our players and are committed to ensuring our student-athletes uphold the standards of sportsmanship and character that our program and community expect. Best of luck for the remainder of the season to St. Thomas Aquinas and thank you for your understanding on this matter."

St. Thomas Aquinas responded to the pregame slight by racing to a 38-0 lead at halftime in a matchup. The Raiders' first offensive play was a touchdown, while also scoring on a punt return and a pick-six. After the game, DeSoto's team shook hands with the Raiders and their coaches.

Claude Mathis, DeSoto's football coach, lauded Baker for shaking hands while his three counterparts didn't.

“SaRod shook hands. He knows I wouldn’t stand for that,” Mathis told the Dallas Morning News. “He got on those players [who didn’t]. He knows that’s not what we stand for. I was very proud of him.

“Those kids feel bad right now. They weren’t trying to be mean. They were just trying to set a tone, that we’re here to play. We’re not punks, but they took it the wrong way.”

Follow Sports Reporter Alex Martin on X at @NP_AlexMartin or via email: amartin@usatodayco.com. For additional high school sports coverage, be sure to follow USA TODAY High School Sports on Instagram and X.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: DeSoto (TX) football issues apology after video of handshake snub goes viral

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