Air Academy Coach Cites Safety Concerns in Forfeit of Lutheran Game

Colorado Springs' Academy District 20 managed a high-profile scheduling change in early October. Air Academy High School forfeited its Oct. 9 homecoming football game against Lutheran High School of Parker.

Public records indicate the decision stemmed from internal conflicts regarding player safety. Head football coach Waymond Jackson told district leaders he refused to expose his team to potential racial abuse. Internal emails obtained through the Colorado Open Records Act show Jackson writing to a district official on Oct. 5. He stated his decision was not about football but about ensuring students, managers, and families remained safe in a setting where they might face discrimination.

Jackson specified that Air Academy would not play unless allegations were fully investigated. He demanded real accountability and concrete steps to prevent a repeat of the alleged conduct. The controversy originated during a Sept. 24 game between Lutheran and Sand Creek High School. Sand Creek cheerleaders and their coach reported that Lutheran students and community members used racist remarks and gestures. These included calling Black cheerleaders by a historical figure's name, using slurs, and whipping belts toward them.

The district's public announcement cited a shortage of coaches as the reason for the forfeit. It made no mention of racism allegations. Players later said they supported the forfeit as a protest against the alleged conduct at the Sand Creek game. Emails suggest a split between Jackson and administrators. Becky Harris, the district's assistant superintendent for learning services, told Principal Amy Ripperger to respect Jackson's decision. However, Harris directed Jackson not to inform his staff or students. On Oct. 7, Ripperger wrote that no coaches were willing to coach on Friday night.

District communications chief Mark Belcher said individual staff emails do not always reflect official district positions. He noted that the district worked with both schools to hold the game by limiting visiting fans and adding security. The Colorado High School Activities Association has found that Lutheran spectators and participants used discriminatory language across multiple football and basketball events. The association has threatened suspension unless the school completes a corrective action plan.

Lutheran executive director Dan Gehrke said the school condemns racism and will meet every association requirement. He noted the school had offered a spectator plan and a head coaches' meeting. As of Thursday, a Lutheran parent coalition had raised more than $53,000 toward a $500,000 goal for security and legal action. Lutheran plays Montrose on Friday, its first game since the controversy emerged.