The decision announced Wednesday by presidents at Northwestern State and Stephen F. Austin ending the schools’ six-decade football rivalry “Chief Caddo” trophy exchange was a widespread shock in the region.

Many frustrated alumni and supporters of NSU and SFA reacted with passionate social media posts, texts, phone calls and in conversations. Proponents of the move reacted accordingly.

The decision had roots in complaints registered in a November 2020 letter from the Caddo Nation of Oklahoma, complaining the trophy reflected poorly on the tribe’s history and identity.

You can read the letter here:

 

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