For decades, Evangel Christian Academy’s (ECA) football program has tolerated off-play hits, reckless conduct, and questionable recruiting practices. This culture endangers athletes and undermines the integrity of high school athletics. Change must start now — from the top.

On October 24, 2025, a serious incident occurred during a game involving ECA that left an opposing athlete motionless on the field for nearly fifteen minutes before being taken by ambulance. Despite the severity of the situation, no penalties were assessed, and the player involved remained in the game. Unfortunately, this is not an isolated event.

[Footage of recent games is publicly available on social media, including platforms like Facebook, through posts by schools, fans, or other viewers. These clips illustrate repeated instances of off-play contact and aggressive behavior consistent with the concerns described above. The footage is not included here to protect the identities of student athletes.]

This season alone, multiple athletes across District 1-5A have been seriously injured in games involving ECA. Unsportsmanlike conduct has been repeatedly documented, highlighting a long-standing culture of aggression within the program. This is not about a single game or player; it is a systemic issue that has been allowed to persist for far too long.

Evangel Christian Academy has built its reputation on glorifying off-play hits and promoting a “win-at-all-costs” mentality. Its approach to recruiting has also drawn criticism for blurring ethical lines and normalizing unsafe behavior.

At the center of it all is Denny Duron — founder of ECA’s football program, Chancellor, head coach, and pastor of the affiliated church. With total control of the program, many in the community believe his approach has contributed to a culture that prioritizes winning and physical dominance over safety.

As both a coach and a public figure, his influence extends beyond the field, highlighting the need for ethical guidance and oversight within such a visible organization. Over the years, ECA has been criticized for aggressive on-field behavior, a lack of disciplinary follow-through, and other ethical concerns. These patterns suggest deeper issues in the program's leadership.

Rules and safety standards exist for a reason. Even at the collegiate and professional levels, where athletes are trained for elite competition, strict protocols are enforced to prevent the long-term effects of repeated head trauma and reckless hits. Studies have linked football-related trauma to chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), post-concussion syndrome, spinal injuries, and lasting emotional and behavioral effects — all stemming from preventable on-field violence. If national programs recognize and enforce these safeguards, Louisiana high school football must be held to no lesser standard.

We call on Evangel Christian Academy and the Louisiana High School Athletic Association (LHSAA) to:

• Conduct a full investigation into the October 24 incident, including coaching oversight and officiating.
• Hold ECA accountable for repeated misconduct and review its membership in District 1-5A, with removal required if the program fails to meet safety and fair play standards.
• Enforce sportsmanship and conduct expectations across all Louisiana high school football programs.
• Require mandatory training for coaches and officials on leadership ethics and athlete welfare.
• Ensure transparency from LHSAA in the review and resolution of misconduct cases.

Athletes deserve to trust that leadership will uphold the rules and value their welfare. Illegal on-field tactics and off-play attacks put players at risk for serious injury and lasting health effects. These dangerous actions, alongside the practice of unethical recruiting, foster a negative culture whose consequences extend far beyond the sidelines, eroding the game's integrity.

Evangel Christian Academy must confront its deep-rooted failures and take meaningful, corrective action. Sign today to demand responsibility, transparency, and lasting reform in Louisiana high school football. Enough is enough.