The Philadelphia Eagles made headlines this week after a disturbing video went viral, showing fan Ryan Caldwell berating a female Green Bay Packers supporter during the Eagles’ playoff game. Caldwell’s actions, described as “unprovoked and unacceptable,” sparked outrage across social media, leading to swift consequences from both his employer and the Eagles organization. The incident also brought “Big Dom” DiSandro, the Eagles’ Senior Advisor to the GM and Chief Security Officer, into the spotlight for his role in addressing the controversy.
What Did Ryan Caldwell Do?
Caldwell, a project manager at BCT Partners, was recorded during the game hurling vile insults at the Packers fan, who was simply cheering for her team.
What it’s like going to Philly just trying to root for your team…
Unprovoked, uncalled for. Packers twitter, help me out and find this guy…. this is not okay
I hate that my fiancé had this happen simply cheering for her team pic.twitter.com/aiHCKzxrSS
— Alexander Basara (@Basaraski) January 13, 2025
The harassment was captured by the woman’s fiancé, Alexander Basara, and shared on X (formerly Twitter). Basara’s post read:
“What it’s like going to Philly just trying to root for your team… Unprovoked, uncalled for. Packers Twitter, help me out and find this guy… This is not okay.”
The video quickly went viral, amassing over 10 million views and igniting a firestorm of criticism from NFL fans.
Who is Big Dom and What Was His Response?
Big Dom DiSandro, known for managing security and fan conduct at Lincoln Financial Field, took immediate steps to identify Caldwell. DiSandro has a long-standing reputation for maintaining order and enforcing the Eagles’ strict code of conduct. Once Caldwell was identified, the Eagles issued a lifetime ban, barring him from attending any future games at the stadium.
In a statement, the team said, “We have zero tolerance for abusive behavior. We are deeply sorry for the experience this fan endured and are committed to ensuring Lincoln Financial Field remains a safe environment for all guests.”
As part of their efforts to rectify the situation, the Eagles plan to send Packers merchandise to Basara’s fiancée as an apology.
What Did BCT Partners Say?
Caldwell’s employer, BCT Partners, also condemned the behavior. The company, which emphasizes diversity and inclusion, called the incident “completely unacceptable” and announced an internal investigation. While details of Caldwell’s employment status remain undisclosed, sources suggest he may face termination.
— BCT Partners (@bctpartners973) January 14, 2025
Big Dom’s Role
DiSandro’s involvement was pivotal in resolving the matter. As the Eagles’ Chief Security Officer, Big Dom is often seen as the team’s enforcer, ensuring that fans and players alike uphold the organization’s standards. His swift response not only identified the perpetrator but also reassured fans that such behavior would not be tolerated.
Thanks to the quick actions of Big Dom and the Eagles organization, a strong message has been sent: there’s no place for abuse in sports.
