Albany Lacrosse Coach Calls Out NCAA Rules Committee Over Suspensions

Marr says racial slurs and cheap shots led to altercation, criticizes committee's handling of Native American players

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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University at Albany men's lacrosse head coach Scott Marr revealed that his team was shorthanded for their game against Cornell due to suspensions stemming from a preseason altercation at Brown. Marr said the incident was sparked by racial slurs and a cheap shot delivered to one of his players, but criticized the NCAA rules committee's handling of the suspensions, particularly as they relate to Native American players on his team.

Why it matters

This incident highlights ongoing tensions around the treatment of Native American student-athletes in college sports, as well as broader concerns about the NCAA's disciplinary policies and their potential to unfairly target minority players. Marr's public criticism also raises questions about the NCAA's responsiveness to player safety and racial equity issues.

The details

During a preseason scrimmage at Brown University, an altercation broke out that resulted in the suspension of three Albany players and two Brown players. Marr said the incident was sparked by racial slurs directed at his players and a cheap shot delivered to one of them. However, Marr was critical of the NCAA rules committee's handling of the suspensions, particularly as they relate to the Native American players on his team.

  • The incident occurred during a preseason scrimmage at Brown University.
  • The suspensions were announced prior to Albany's game against Cornell on Saturday, February 15, 2026.

The players

Scott Marr

Head coach of the University at Albany men's lacrosse team.

Kolten Marquis

Senior attack player for the University at Albany men's lacrosse team who was suspended for the Cornell game.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

What’s next

The NCAA rules committee is expected to review the suspensions and determine if any changes will be made to the disciplinary actions.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the ongoing challenges faced by Native American student-athletes in college sports, as well as the need for the NCAA to address issues of racial equity and player safety more effectively. Coach Marr's public criticism of the rules committee's handling of the suspensions underscores the importance of addressing these concerns and ensuring fair treatment for all players.