The high school football scrimmage between Southgate Anderson and Redford Union came to an abrupt and early end. Multiple punches were thrown during a brawl between the two programs in the state of Michigan.
It could’ve been a lot worse but it was not great.
Tension had been building throughout the afternoon. The two high school football teams let their emotions get the best of them.
Southgate Anderson scrimmaged Redford Union in 7-on-7.
These two programs do not compete on the same level of the Michigan High School Athletic Association. They are very different.
Anderson High School is located in Southgate, Michigan. Founded in 1982, it enrolls approximately 1,000 students in Grades 9-12. The Titans compete in Division 2 as a members of the Downriver League. They finished last season one loss below .500 at 4-6.
Redford Union is located in Redford, Michigan. Formally established in 1925, it enrolls approximately 500 students in Grades 9-12. The Panthers compete in Division 5, Class B as members of the Western Wayne Athletic Conference. They finished last season one win above .500 at 6-4.
Because of the difference in their enrollments, Southgate and Redford Union do not play each other during the regular season. They cannot matchup in the postseason. That makes them great partners for offseason scrimmages.
Redford Union invited Dearborn, Southgate Anderson and Renaissance to campus over the weekend. The regular season is still more than two months away so it was not full contact. Nor was it full pads. Nor was it full rosters.
Only the top skill players on each team were invited to participate in the 7-on-7 scrimmage. 7-on-7 is a great way to refine route-running, timing and coverage in a fast-paced, non-contact environment.
A brawl broke out at the Michigan high school football scrimmage.
Teams who participated in the 7-on-7 tournament rotate through on offense and defense. Every team gets to play against ever other team on both sides of the ball. The last matchup of the day put Redford Union on offense and Southgate Anderson on defense.
I don’t know whether this was intended to be the final scrimmage of the day or if a brawl forced an early end. Either way, the afternoon ended with violence.
A Titans defensive back wrestled a Panthers wide receiver to the ground on an intense 1-on-1 rep near the sideline. The defensive back ran away from the play. The wide receiver removed his helmet, got back to his feet and charged at the defense back. A brawl ensued.
Redford Union threw the first punch but Southgate Anderson quickly responded with blows of their own. Players from both teams converged at midfield before the respective coaching staffs were able to break things up.
Fortunately, the situation did not result in any injuries. I am sure both teams will have to run a few extra sprints at their next workout but this kind of scrimmage is not regulated by MHSAA so I do not expect any suspensions or additional punishment.