SWAC Fines Florida A&M $10K, Suspends PA Announcer After Game Day Drama

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – SWAC Slaps Florida A&M with $10K Fine After PA System Gaffe

The Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) is sending a strong message about respect and sportsmanship. Following inappropriate comments made over the public address system during Saturday’s football game against Alabama State University, Florida A&M University has been issued a public reprimand and a $10,000 fine.

The university’s public address announcer will also be sidelined for the next two football games. The announcer had referred to Alabama State’s plus-sized dance team, the Honey Beez, as “the new face of Ozempic,” a weight-loss drug—a remark widely criticized as body-shaming.

“Inappropriate conduct and invective language will always be met with strong action,” the SWAC said. “We take zero tolerance seriously, and this applies to all athletes, staff, and spectators—male or female.”

Florida A&M has apologized, emphasizing that the comment does not reflect the university’s values. The SWAC hopes this incident serves as a reminder that respect and sportsmanship are required across all competitions, including women’s sports.