ASU Rugby Player Pleads Guilty To Kicking UA Rival In Face

PHOENIX, AZ — An Arizona State University rugby player who kicked a University of Arizona opponent in the face last year pleaded guilty to aggravated assault, according to reports. Christopher Crawford, 21, kicked the man, rendering him unconscious.

Crawford turned himself in a few days after the incident February 2017, according to Tucson.com. They also reported the other player was on a knee tying his laces during a break in play when Crawford kicked him.

In the video, Crawford can be seen kicking the player, who falls on his back. Several teammates of the victim, identified as Douglas Neary, according to AZ Central, then jogged up, ensuring Crawford and the victim remained separated.

Neary had to undergo reconstructive surgery, according to reports.

Crawford initially said he kicked Neary in self defense after Neary punched him during a tackle, AZ Central reported.

Crawford's sentencing is scheduled for June 6.

See the video of the kick (at 0:35) below: (some viewers may find this video disturbing)

Article image melis via Shutterstock