Incident Overview

The family of Calvin “CJ” Dickey Jr., an 18-year-old freshman football player at Bucknell University, has initiated a lawsuit against the university, as well as members of its administration and coaching staff. The lawsuit stems from Dickey’s untimely death on July 12, 2025, following a workout where he collapsed two days earlier.

Dickey’s autopsy revealed that he died from complications linked to sickle cell trait-related rhabdomyolysis, a condition that medical professionals inform can be effectively managed by ceasing physical activity at the onset of symptoms.

Claims and Accountability

The lawsuit asserts that Dickey’s death was completely preventable and cites “aggravated hazing” practices as contributing factors. In the wake of this incident, his mother, Nicole Dickey, expressed the family’s commitment to seeking answers and accountability: “We do this for CJ, for every young man on that team, and anyone who comes after him.”

A representative from Bucknell expressed condolences to the Dickey family but noted their policy of not commenting on ongoing litigation.

NCAA Guidelines and Sickle Cell Trait

The National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) requires testing for sickle cell trait in all athletes, given the increased risk of rhabdomyolysis during intense physical exertion. According to NCAA guidelines, proper conditioning practices that consider this risk are essential, and coaches must be prepared to act if athletes exhibit signs of distress.

Documentation submitted by Dickey’s parents indicates that they had informed Bucknell of their son’s medical condition prior to his arrival on campus and discussed it with a trainer.

Details of the Workout

During his first workout, Dickey reportedly participated in strenuous drills, including what was described as punishment up-downs, a common conditioning exercise. Witnesses indicated that he struggled to keep pace and showed visible signs of distress before he collapsed. Alarmingly, the lawsuit claims that no trainer was present during the session, raising questions about safety protocols.

Emergency Response and Aftermath

Following his collapse, Dickey was transported to the hospital, where he underwent emergency procedures, including dialysis. Unfortunately, despite intervention efforts, his heart stopped multiple times, and resuscitation attempts were ultimately halted at the family’s request.

The suit claims negligence on part of the school and seeks damages, along with a push for Bucknell to implement measures preventing future tragedies.

Dickey’s father, Calvin Dickey Sr., emphasized their intent to prevent other families from experiencing similar pain: “We don’t want another athlete, another family, brother, cousin to go through this type of agony and pain and death, especially when it’s not necessary or completely avoidable.”