A Campus in Mourning
The death of Calvin "CJ" Dickey Jr., an 18‑year‑old freshman on the Bucknell Bison football team, shocked the campus in early July 2024. He collapsed during his first scheduled workout on July 10, and despite being rushed to a hospital, he succumbed to his injuries two days later.
An autopsy later revealed that Dickey’s demise was the result of a combination of his sickle cell trait, his body weight, and exertional rhabdomyolysis — a severe muscle breakdown that can be triggered by intense exercise. The medical examiner noted that the condition is especially dangerous for athletes who carry the genetic variant.
Prosecutors allege that Mark Kulbis, who had served as the university’s strength and conditioning coach, was aware of Dickey’s medical vulnerability yet continued to subject him to grueling drills. The indictment accuses Kulbis of ignoring both the school’s anti‑hazing policies and the training he received on sickle cell trait, ultimately leading to the fatal outcome.
The case has drawn comparisons to the 2017 hazing death of Penn State student Timothy Piazza, prompting the state to expand its aggravated hazing statute. Kulbis now faces felony aggravated hazing charges, among other counts, as the legal system seeks to hold him accountable.
Dickey’s parents have filed a wrongful‑death lawsuit against Bucknell University, seeking compensation for medical expenses, funeral costs, and the loss of their son’s future earnings. The suit contends that the hazing‑related rituals imposed on freshmen created an environment where medical risks were willfully disregarded.
The scandal has reignited conversations about athlete safety, medical oversight, and the culture of intense initiation practices in college sports. University officials and the NCAA are expected to review their protocols in the wake of the tragedy.