Hazing incident reported at Cheltenham High School
CHELTENHAM, Pa. (WPVI) -- The Cheltenham School District confirms a hazing incident occurred involving student athletes.
It happened September 23rd at Cheltenham High School.
School officials say players on the boys' soccer team forcefully pulled the victim's underwear until it ripped.
The district reported it to police. It is retraining students and coaches on all school teams about the zero-tolerance policy.
Full Statement from Cheltenham School District:
The Cheltenham School District, placing the safety and security of students as its highest priority, has zero-tolerance for hazing, or any form of intimidation or humiliation in any program, including extra-curricular activities. There are no exceptions.
The District became aware of hazing allegations of a non-sexual nature involving the boys' soccer team on Tuesday, September 23, and immediately began an internal investigation. The investigation revealed a practice of players using a hazing technique known as "ripping" which is a forceful pulling and tearing of the victim's underwear to the point where it rips and allows the victim to be dangled by their underwear. We notified the local police, which is our practice in such instances.
The matter has been thoroughly investigated and appropriate actions have been taken with regard to certain athletes and certain District personnel with supervisory responsibilities. The District has shared relevant information about the matter with the affected families and staff. In keeping with policy and practice, the District will provide no additional information regarding the specific matter. However, we can confirm that the District is in the process of conducting re-training for all students and staff involved in all extra-curricular activities as we enforce our zero-tolerance policy and reaffirm the respect and value of every member of our student community.
