Tallahassee, Florida, September 2, 2025
News Summary
The Atlantic Coast Conference has fined Florida State University $50,000 for violating its event security policy after fans stormed the field in celebration of the team’s upset victory over Alabama. This penalty marks the first under a new policy aimed at enhancing safety. In a related matter, freshman linebacker Ethan Pritchard is in critical condition following a shooting incident. The university continues to navigate these significant challenges as it moves forward in the football season.
Tallahassee, Florida – The Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) has imposed a $50,000 fine on Florida State University for violating the league’s event security policy after fans stormed the field following the team’s 31-17 upset victory over No. 8 Alabama. This penalty marks Florida State as the first ACC school to be fined under a newly established policy introduced earlier this summer to enhance player and fan safety.
The ACC’s new regulation specifies that a first offense incurs a $50,000 fine, with penalties doubling for subsequent violations. A third infraction can result in a fine of up to $200,000. Collected fines are allocated towards a postgraduate scholarship fund for ACC athletes. This policy aligns with similar regulations instituted by the Southeastern Conference (SEC), which has seen escalating penalties for field-storming violations starting at $100,000 for a first offense, recently increased to a flat fine of $500,000.
The dramatic win over Alabama took place at Doak Campbell Stadium, significantly uplifting the team’s spirits after a disappointing previous season during which they recorded just two wins against ten losses. Quarterback Tommy Castellanos, a transfer from Boston College, played a pivotal role in the victory, even marketing T-shirts that showcased his pre-game banter regarding Alabama. Notably, Alabama has faced field-storming incidents in each of its last eleven road losses.
The ACC stipulates that fans are only permitted to enter the playing field after both the visiting team and officials have exited, which aims to maintain safety for players, coaches, and spectators alike.
Shooting Incident Involving Freshman Linebacker
In a separate and tragic development, Florida State freshman linebacker Ethan Pritchard is currently hospitalized in critical but stable condition following a shooting incident that occurred on Sunday while he was visiting family in Havana, Florida. Pritchard underwent surgery and remains in the intensive care unit as authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
The incident took place near Havana Heights Apartments, and the Gadsden County Sheriff’s Office is collaborating with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement as part of an ongoing investigation. Pritchard, a three-star recruit who attended Seminole High School and was previously regarded as a four-star prospect, did not play in the season opener but had received favorable feedback during preseason practices.
FSU football coach Mike Norvell has described the shooting as a tragic event and has been present with Pritchard’s family at the hospital. Pritchard’s family has asked for privacy during this challenging time and expressed appreciation for the outpouring of support from the community. Multiple news outlets have confirmed the details surrounding the incident.
Context on Florida State’s Football Program
Florida State’s football program has a storied history but has faced recent challenges. The team’s performance last season raised concerns among fans and analysts alike. However, the recent victory against Alabama has renewed hope among supporters, demonstrating the potential strides the team can make.
Week 1 of college football also saw various teams facing unique challenges, including Tulane’s inability to honor the anniversary of Hurricane Katrina and neutral site games resulting in road conditions for some teams. As the season unfolds, teams like Florida State will look to build upon their early successes and learn from their missteps.
Summary of Key Events
- Florida State fined $50,000 for field storming after upset win over Alabama.
- First offense under ACC’s new event security policy.
- Ethan Pritchard hospitalized in critical condition after shooting incident.
- Investigation ongoing as community seeks justice and support for the injured player.
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Author: STAFF HERE HUNTSVILLE WRITER
The HUNTSVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHuntsville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Huntsville, Madison County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Panoply Arts Festival, Rocket City Brewfest, and Huntsville Comic & Pop Culture Expo. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce and HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology, plus leading businesses in aerospace, defense, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Boeing, SAIC, and Mazda Toyota Manufacturing. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBirmingham.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
