Steve H

Over the past several days, the conclusion of the 8A Men’s Track and Field Championship has generated significant discussion across North Carolina and beyond. The NCHSAA recognizes and understands there is deep disappointment experienced by the student-athletes, coaches, and the school community involved. As previously stated, officiating decisions made during competition are judgment calls administered by certified meet officials under NFHS playing rules and NCHSAA rules relative to unsporting behavior and actions, and are considered final decisions. The Association appreciates the efforts of the officials who are tasked with applying and enforcing those rules during our championship events. Under state law, an aggrieved party may challenge the decision of an official that results in disqualification by appealing to an independent appeals board appointed by the State Superintendent of Public Instruction. This process is intended to provide a fair opportunity for a thorough review of the officiating decision. Following the established appeals process outlined in the NCHSAA Handbook and state procedures, Mallard Creek High School has exercised its right to such an appeal through the Independent Interscholastic Athletic Appeals Board administered by the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction. The NCHSAA respects the right of member schools to utilize that process and appreciates the importance of ensuring all concerns are heard through the appropriate review structure. Because that process is underway, the NCHSAA will not provide further public comment regarding the specifics of the matter.

Mallard Creek senior track star Nyan Brown — at the center of a "taunting" scandal that has garnered national attention and cost his team a third straight state title — was a 2025 indoor state championship NCHSAA sportsmanship winner. More below

A High School was ROBBED of a State Championship The Mallard Creek boys track and field team was disqualified for taunting because Ngannou Brown raised his hand before crossing the line to win the 4x400m relay. THIS ISN’T TAUNTING OR UNSPORSTMANLIKE

There’s been national discourse surrounding Mallard Creek’s disqualification in the 4x400m relay in this past weekend’s NCHSAA 8A State Championships. The DQ cost them the team title and disrupted what would’ve been a phenomenal feat of 5 straight titles. Rules based on judgment calls always leave room for error. This was such. For the “he was warned” crowd, here’s video of him breaking the 300mH record. To be defined as taunting, doesn’t there have to be a target? It’s unrealistic to expect no human emotion when huge accomplishments are achieved. Nyan Brown is a good kid; Mallard Creek’s athletes worked hard. NCHSAA got this one wrong.