In Calvin's Honor
Honoring Calvin "CJ" Dickey Jr. through athlete safety, education, and meaningful change.
This page is dedicated to honoring the memory of CJ" Dickey, an 18-year-old who tragically passed away following the first day of his college football conditioning camp due to complications from exertional rhabdomyolysis and a sickle cell trait crisis based on independent autopsy findings. CJ discovered he carried the sickle cell trait during NCAA-mandated screenings which was reported to the university prior to reporting to camp. Our mission is to share his story and raise awareness about vital athlete safety issues, including NCAA protocols for managing sickle cell traits and preventing heat-related emergencies.
Click the links below to learn more about the NCAA and CDC Sickle Cell Trait Guidelines
Family of CJ Dickey to Move Forward with Legal Action A Call for Truth and Accountability The family of Calvin “CJ” Dickey Jr. has made the decision to move forward with litigation against Bucknell University. This decision follows months of unanswered requests for full transparency about what led to CJ’s death on July 12, 2024 and the university’s handling of that tragic day. Despite submitting his full medical history, including confirmation of his sickle cell trait, CJ was subjected to an extreme workout on his first day of training. He collapsed and later died from complications tied to exertional rhabdomyolysis and multi organ failure. Key Updates: - In April 2025, the Dickey family filed a lawsuit in Pennsylvania state court. Their attorneys elected to dismiss that case without prejudice and refile in federal court. - November 7, 2025, a civil lawsuit was filed in federal court. That case is active and ongoing. - July 6, 2026 - PA Attorney General file criminal charges against Ex-Bucknell Strength and Condition Coach, Mark Kulbis -September 18, 2026 - All criminal charges held for court These legal actions marks crucial steps in the family's ongoing pursuit of truth, accountability, and change not just for CJ, but for the safety of all student-athletes.
NOW FEATURED Hear CJ’s Story
“100% Preventable”: The Death of Bucknell Football Player Calvin Dickey Jr.
Campus Files: Scandals, Secrets & Crimes at American Universities (Audacy) · Season 5, Episode 5 · 31 min · Released April 8, 2026
“What was supposed to be a light workout during football orientation ended in tragedy. Calvin Dickey, a freshman with sickle cell trait, collapsed and died days later. His parents say Bucknell failed to follow basic safety protocols and then withheld what really happened.”
“Know a coach, parent, or athletic director? Share this episode — it could save a life.”
2027 “50 for #50” Athletic Scholarship Campaign
His Number. His Legacy. Their Opportunity.
The C.J. Dickey Foundation is proud to launch its 2027 scholarship fundraising campaign, continuing our mission to honor Calvin “C.J.” Dickey Jr. by creating educational opportunities for deserving student-athletes.
Every contribution helps carry C.J.'s legacy forward and create opportunities for the next generation.
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