Joint Statement from the Texas School for the Deaf and the New Mexico School for the Deaf
October 6, 2025
The Texas School for the Deaf (TSD) and the New Mexico School for the Deaf (NMSD) sincerely regret the incident that occurred during TSD’s 75th Homecoming football game in Austin last Saturday night. The game was stopped early following multiple on-field infractions and an altercation involving individuals from both schools.
What happened does not reflect the values of sportsmanship, respect, and community that both of our schools strive to teach and uphold. We are deeply disappointed that an event meant to celebrate our students and Deaf communities ended in this way.
Both schools are conducting internal reviews and will take appropriate action. We are committed to learning from this incident and to implementing steps to ensure it does not happen again. Together, TSD and NMSD will also develop and propose a process allowing schools to request an in-game conference when needed to improve communication and help de-escalate tensions.
We ask our communities to keep the following in mind:
1. Videos circulating online show only part of the story and this is why a full investigation is necessary.
2. Please be kind to all students and refrain from criticism or inflammatory language. They are still learning and growing.
3. Mistakes are opportunities to learn. We hope all schools take lessons from this event. As Deaf schools, we must continue to support one another and promote the best in each other.
TSD and NMSD have long shared a strong and positive relationship. We remain united in reinforcing the pride, integrity, and spirit that define our schools and our Deaf communities.
Peter L. Bailey
TSD Superintendent
Dr. Jennifer Herbold
NMSD Superintendent