K-State Soccer Coach Suspended Over Racial Slur

Colleen Corbin suspended for two weeks after allegedly repeating offensive language to players.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 1:48am

Kansas State University soccer Head Coach Colleen Corbin has been suspended for two weeks after she allegedly used a racial slur while addressing players about inappropriate music lyrics played during a spring match. The incident was reported to the university's Civil Rights and Title IX office, and K-State Athletics took disciplinary action.

Why it matters

The use of racial slurs by coaches is a serious issue that can have a significant impact on players and the broader community. This suspension highlights the importance of addressing such incidents swiftly and taking appropriate action to uphold principles of respect and inclusivity in collegiate athletics.

The details

According to reports, Corbin allegedly asked players not to play music with swear words, including the N-word, during a spring match. When relaying the situation to her staff, Corbin is said to have repeated the offensive term. This led to complaints from players, and Corbin met with Athletic Director Gene Taylor on March 23, resulting in the two-week suspension.

  • The incident occurred earlier this month during a spring match.
  • Corbin met with the athletic director on March 23.
  • Corbin was suspended for two weeks following the meeting.

The players

Colleen Corbin

The head coach of the Kansas State University soccer team who was suspended for two weeks after allegedly using a racial slur.

Gene Taylor

The athletic director of Kansas State University who met with Corbin and issued the two-week suspension.

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What they’re saying

“Coach Colleen Corbin was suspended for two weeks following offensive lyrics played during warm-ups before a spring match. While addressing the issue, the coach inappropriately repeated the offensive lyrics. The incident was reported to the University's Civil Rights and Title IX office, and K-State Athletics took action, issuing a suspension. Athletics takes these matters seriously and expects coaches and players to respect others.”

— K-State Athletics

What’s next

The university's Civil Rights and Title IX office will likely continue to investigate the incident, and further disciplinary actions or policy changes may be considered to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

The takeaway

This suspension underscores the importance of creating inclusive and respectful environments in collegiate athletics, where coaches and players alike must be held accountable for their actions and language. The swift response by K-State Athletics sends a clear message that such behavior will not be tolerated.