YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN) — The 2024 football season for Youngstown City School’s middle school football team has come to an abrupt end.
Read next: Local DMV at center of viral video’s claims on First Amendment rights According to a Monday release from the school, the season is over effective immediately. The school says this cancellation is due to concerns referencing conduct that does not align with the district’s mission and vision.
“At YCSD, we believe that sportsmanship, accountability, and integrity are core values that shape not only immediate success but also instill lifelong lessons,” a statement from the school read. “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.”
A city police report said officers were called about 8:10 p.m. to Rayen Stadium at 1903 Cordova Ave. for a report of multiple fights between players of the East and Chaney middle school football teams.
Superintendent of Schools Jeremy Batchelor said there were several fights in the stands as well.
The decision affects three teams, which had two games left on their schedules, according to a district spokesperson.
The school says moving forward, it will be working diligently with staff, coaches, scholars, and families to evaluate the current culture of our middle school sports programs and implement necessary measures to improve accountability and foster a positive, supportive environment for all participants.
“We are committed to the development of well-rounded scholars who exemplify the highest standards of conduct both on and off the field,” said Jeremy Batchelor, Superintendent of YCSD. “This decision underscores our resolve to ensure that our programs reflect the very best of our district’s values.”
The district said it reminds YCSD families and the community that Rayen Stadium remains a welcoming, family-friendly space to watch sports and support our scholar-athletes.
Dave Sess and Joe Gorman contributed to this report.
Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKBN.com.
Local News
