Remainder of HS football season canceled for Newburgh Free Academy due to hazing allegations

NEWBURGH, New York (WABC) — A school district in Newburgh has decided to cancel a high school football team’s season amid an investigation into allegations of violent hazing.

last Friday night homecoming festivities canceled at Newburgh Free Academy in Orange County, but the superintendent announced Tuesday that the remainder of the season would also be canceled.

Newburgh Extended City School District Superintendent Dr. “While I regret this outcome, this is a necessary step as we continue to gather information, support those impacted, and ensure accountability for those involved,” Jackielyn Manning Campbell said.

The allegations involved members of both the Joint Venture Company and Varsity football teams, and the incident in question resulted in injury to a football team player. Officials said they became aware of the alleged violation of the student code of conduct on Oct. 25.

Sources told Eyewitness News that the incident started as a game following a practice that got out of control. Players began throwing chairs at each other, causing serious bruises to one student.

The district said the incident involved a large number of people, was not sexual, but was a serious violation of its code of conduct.

“I know some of our students and their families may be disappointed and believe they have been unfairly punished for the actions of a few individuals,” Campbell said. “I want to reaffirm that the safety and well-being of all of our faculty remains my top priority. The timing of the information received by the district was unfortunate as it impacted unrelated student activities and led to the cancellation of the athletic season. As superintendent, I must ensure that this investigation is thorough and free from outside influence. “

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