Athens Area High School administrators and Pennsylvania State Police are investigating allegations of hazing and bullying in the Wildcats’ football program.
In a letter posted on the district’s website Wednesday, Superintendent Craig Stage said officials began an immediate investigation after learning of several incidents on Aug. 20 that caused physical and emotional harm to several student-athletes. “
The letter alleges the inappropriate behavior occurred during Bloomsburg University’s mid-July football camp and preseason practices on school grounds.
“The district does not condone other actions that cause harm to team members and student-athletes,” the letter states.
Stage said school administrators met with the Pennsylvania State Police and are cooperating with their investigation.
NFL: Bills rookie Matt Araiza has been accused of participating in the rape of a 17-year-old girl
For subscribers: Episode 4 football is back. As part of preseason camps in Elmira, Corning and Horseheads
Additionally, the letter states, the district will pursue disciplinary action against the students responsible for the incidents and address the culture of the football program through intensive and immediate training of coaches and student-athletes.
Citing state and federal laws and district privacy policies, Stage said the school will not share names, details or specifications that could identify student-athletes involved in incidents.
The football season in Bradford County will continue as planned.
“We do not believe it is necessary to take punitive action against the football players, the band and the cheerleaders who perform at the football games who were not involved in these incidents,” Stage wrote in the letter.
Coaches, players must complete hazing prevention training
According to the letter, all coaches must complete training from the National Federation of State High School Associations on bullying, hazing and inappropriate behavior aimed at identifying and preventing it. On the same subject : Cam Newton calls K’Von Wallace ‘Glitter’ after Patriots root Eagles: ‘Cheerleaders usually have glitter o. The coaches were instructed to finish training by Friday.
Before the start of the season, varsity and junior varsity football players must complete training that covers the impact and consequences of bullying and hazing, the district said.
The varsity team opens its season at home against Cowanesque Valley at 7 p.m. September 2
Athens is not the only Pennsylvania high school rocked by hazing and bullying allegations. According to a report by CNN, Middletown Area High School canceled the upcoming football season on Wednesday after administrators saw a video of teammates chatting.
CNN also reported that Mohawk High School’s football program has been suspended while the western Pennsylvania district investigates the hazing allegations.
Follow Neal Simon on Twitter @HornellTribNeal. For unlimited access to the latest news, please subscribe or activate your digital account today.
What happens if a frat is caught hazing?
Those accused of engaging in hazing behavior can face legal action up to and including jail time. In addition, hazing victims can seek monetary damages in civil court from the individuals and groups involved. See the article : Falcons host cheerleading prep classes ahead of 2020 tryouts. The U-M Statement of Student Rights and Responsibilities prohibits hazing.
Do I have to inform my relative? Who should report hating? YOU SHOULD! If you witness or are robbed, you are responsible for reporting the incident.
What are common hazing rituals?
The most common hazing-related activities in student groups were alcohol consumption, humiliation, isolation, sleep deprivation, and sexual acts. To see also : Meet the 2019 Atlanta Falcons Cheerleaders. Police forces, especially those with a paramilitary tradition, or sub-units of the police force, such as tactical teams, may also have chat rituals.
.
