Statement from MU Chancellor Brady Deaton

October 28th, 2010

COLUMBIA, Mo. ­— During sporting events at the University of Missouri, the safety of our players, coaches, opponents, students and fans is our No. 1 priority. Sometimes, the aftermath of exciting games presents challenges for those officials charged with maintaining a safe environment, which was the case immediately following the conclusion of the MU-Oklahoma football game.

It is important to note that our police force, with the cooperation of the Boone County Sherriff’s Department and the Missouri State Highway Patrol, performed admirably. Fans violating our rules were warned that they faced arrest and subsequent sanctions. While we were fortunate that few injuries were reported, one individual did suffer a broken leg.

Our fans must conduct themselves with honor and respect for the values of the university, even during the euphoria of a big win. We have high expectations for many more wins and must insist on orderly behavior in an effort to avoid any injuries. At the same time, university officials recognize that safety and law enforcement officials cannot be expected to enforce the letter of the law in circumstances that involved thousands of people.

The football game against Oklahoma presented officials with unique circumstances. After careful review, the university will not forward the summons for trespassing on the field at the MU-OU football game to the city prosecutor.

We ask all students, parents, alumni, community members and fans to support us in these enforcement efforts. We all benefit from an orderly atmosphere that supports our outstanding team, allows us the opportunity to be gracious hosts to our opponents, showcases our university to the nation, and, most important, provides a safe environment for everyone. As we expect our football team, coaches and fans to have a safe experience when we play opposing teams on the road, we reach out to all of our fans to help us ensure a safe environment at Mizzou.