COLUMBUS, Ohio (WSYX) — Olentangy Local Schools officials told ABC 6 that six seniors have been suspended from the girls’ high school soccer team.
This comes after the coaching staff was placed on administrative leave after hazing allegations involving players surfaced last month.
The district said it is launching a comprehensive review into the alleged hazing incident.
School officials said a teacher first reported a rumor on Sept. 16, and the district notified law enforcement and began its own investigation.
Law enforcement initially determined no criminal charges would be filed, and the students involved were disciplined.
ABC 6 reviewed video of the hazing; the video showed images of some of the soccer players shoving food down their teammates’ mouths while their wrists were zip-tied and bodies wrapped in plastic wrap.
Officials said new information has since been shared, prompting the latest review. Saturday marked the team’s first soccer game since the coaches were suspended. A school spokesperson said coaches from the boys’ junior varsity squad led the girls team against Bishop Watterson.
A spokesperson for Olentangy Orange High School said some coaching staff from the boys junior varsity team helped lead the girls team in their game against undefeated Bishop Watterson, which beat Orange, 5-0, according to MaxPreps. It was Orange’s fourth straight loss.
The spokesperson said school officials met with parents on Friday to ensure the success of the team throughout the rest of the season.
Orange plays at Olentangy Liberty on Tuesday to close out the regular season.