Colorado State University Apologizes After Student Chant Directed at Ukrainian Student-Athlete

Colorado State University has issued an apology after some of its student spectators directed a pro-Russia chant at a Ukrainian student-athlete on the opposing team at a Saturday night basketball game.

The incident occurred during a men’s basketball game between Colorado State and Utah State in Fort Collins, Colorado. A small group of individuals in the student section chanted “Russia” at Utah State’s Ukrainian junior guard.

In response to the incident, Colorado State University released a series of tweets early Sunday morning. “We became aware that a small group of individuals in our student section chanted ‘Russia’ at a student-athlete from Utah State, who is from the Ukraine. On behalf of Colorado State, we apologize to the student-athlete and Utah State,” the school wrote.

The school also stated that “every participant, student, and fan should feel welcomed in our venues, and for something like this to have occurred is unacceptable at Colorado State.”

The incident comes at a time when Ukraine is facing a violent assault from Russia. Kyiv, the capital of Ukraine, has been subjected to intense shelling, the killing of civilians attempting to flee, and attacks on civilian infrastructure.

Colorado State University has expressed its regret for the incident and has apologized to the student-athlete and Utah State. The school has also reiterated its commitment to creating a welcoming environment for all participants, students, and fans.