YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio — The city’s school district has canceled the remainder of the football season for two middle schools, citing fights among the players and also in the stands at games.
WFMJ Channel 21 reports police were called to a game at Rayen Stadium last week because of fights involving “multiple groups of minors.” WKBN Channel 27 reports that police say players with the East and Chaney middle school football teams were involved in the fights.
Jeremy Batchelor, the Youngstown City School District superintendent, tells WKBN that several fights broke out in the stands. There were no reports of arrests or injuries.
The district released a statement Monday saying the remainder of the season for both teams were canceled, effective immediately. Both teams had three more games on their schedules.
“At YCSD, we believe that sportsmanship, accountability, and integrity are core values that shape not only immediate success but also instill lifelong lessons,” the statement says, according to WFMJ “The decision to end the seasons is based on our duty to uphold these values at all levels and with all stakeholders.
“As a district, we are dedicated to creating a positive, respectful, and responsible environment for our scholar-athletes, which will better prepare them for their future endeavors.”
The district says it will work with coaches, staff and families to improve the program and “foster a positive, supportive environment for all participants.”
