Duke Football Player Apologizes for Swatting Staffer's Arm

Duke cornerback Kimari Robinson has apologized for swatting the arm of a female athletic trainer during a game on Saturday. The incident occurred when the trainer approached to check on injured teammate DaShawn Stone, and Robinson pushed her hand away.

Video of the event, which was shared on social media, drew criticism from many viewers who deemed Robinson's actions disrespectful. Others defended the player, citing the high emotions of a game situation.

In a statement, Robinson acknowledged his wrongdoing. "I was completely wrong, and she did not deserve that," he said. "The injured player on the ground, DaShawn Stone, is like family to me, and I was scared he might be seriously hurt. But being worried about him does not excuse how I treated her. I should have controlled my emotions, and I didn’t."

Robinson stated that he apologized to the staff member directly after the game, a 24-20 loss to North Carolina. "I’m truly sorry for my actions and for letting her, myself and our program down. I have to be better than that," he added.

Stone, a safety, was able to walk off the field under his own power, and no further updates on his injury have been provided.

Robinson is a redshirt junior cornerback. He and Stone have been teammates for four seasons. Duke has not yet commented on the incident, and no disciplinary actions have been announced by the football program or head coach Manny Diaz.