Nevada Pierre’s playing time at a Florida youth football game sparked a dispute.
Police say the family cooperated after a dispute over the three-year-old’s playing time, while the league has launched an internal review.
A dispute over Nevada Pierre benching decisions prompted a police call at a youth football game in Winter Park, Florida. His parents say league officials repeatedly sidelined the three-year-old because he dominated play.
The toddler reportedly scored 10 goals despite playing for just 12 minutes. Videos circulating online show him dribbling, controlling the ball and running towards goal during a youth match.
However, the disagreement escalated when league staff asked the family to leave and offered a refund. The game coordinator then called 911, alleging that a parent was following him, recording for Instagram and causing a disturbance.
Police confirm family cooperated
By the time officers arrived, the match had ended and the family was preparing to leave. The Winter Park Police Department said officers helped communicate the league’s message about the refund.
Police also said the family cooperated fully. Officers made no arrests and issued no trespass warnings.
The parents maintain that officials unfairly penalised Nevada for outperforming other children. They say staff limited his involvement because he kept possession and left other players with fewer opportunities on the ball.
His mother, Martasia Griffin, also said the experience left him confused and traumatised. She said he became afraid that he had done something wrong.
Nevada Pierre benching draws online criticism
Meanwhile, footage of the incident has drawn millions of views across TikTok and Instagram. The response has included criticism from children’s media creator Ms Rachel and prominent former athletes.
In an Instagram post, Ms Rachel characterised the incident as racist and expressed anger over the treatment of Nevada. She also invited him onto her show to share his football skills.
Additionally, she urged people in sport to support the child and offer him positive experiences. Former NFL quarterback Robert Griffin III and retired American football player Eddie Johnson also condemned the league’s handling of the dispute.
League contacts family and begins review
League operator i9 Sports Maitland/Winter Park acknowledged the incident and said it had contacted the family. It also announced an internal review that would include conversations with those involved.
In its statement, the operator emphasised respectful treatment and the welfare of children and families. However, it said it would avoid speculation or sharing unverified information while examining the circumstances.
