National Football League

Ray Rice attends New Rochelle HS football game, controversy follows

Updated Mar. 4, 2020 6:14 p.m. ET

foxsports

Where Ray Rice goes, some sort of controversy is bound to follow.

The disgraced NFL star went to the New Rochelle High School football game on Saturday. Rice starred at the school in his prep days.

Nothing, however, is that simple anymore for the former Baltimore Ravens star.

There was reportedly a difference of opinion on whether Rice should attend.

The school's principal, Reggie Richardson, didn't want Rice at the game, according to the blog Talk of the Sound.

However, longtime coach Lou DiRienzo invited Rice and hugged the running back, who was with his wife Janay and daughter Rayven.

Ray Rice with Janay Rice and their child, at New Rochelle HS in first public appearance since elevator video released pic.twitter.com/RnbT1qZ48h
— Talk of the Sound (@TalkoftheSound) September 13, 2014

Richardson downplayed any split.

NRHS Football coach says Ray Rice always part of New Rochelle program, says he went to Baltimore to support Ray. pic.twitter.com/P01cH1cdbv
— Talk of the Sound (@TalkoftheSound) September 13, 2014

"I don't know how the word got out" about Rice's visit, Richardson said. "The fact is that although we condemn Ray's actions that he engaged in, we also have to acknowledge the fact that this is his home. New Rochelle is his home."

Holding daughter, #RayRice on the sidelines of New Rochelle HS football game. Janay in black cap @ABC7NY pic.twitter.com/KYrgo1cYwy
— Marcus Solis (@MarcusSolis7) September 13, 2014

Look like national media have become Talk of the Sound readers - most major media here for first Ray Rice appearance pic.twitter.com/zKBIrvgQkp
— Talk of the Sound (@TalkoftheSound) September 13, 2014