Youngstown, Ohio, September 5, 2025
News Summary
Ursuline High School has canceled an upcoming football game following serious allegations detailed in a federal lawsuit involving hazing and sexual assault. The case centers around a freshman player reportedly subjected to abuse during a team camp. The school confirmed it has begun an investigation while local law enforcement is also looking into the claims. Disciplinary actions have been taken against some involved students, with additional allegations emerging, indicating a concerning culture within the football program.
Youngstown, Ohio – Ursuline High School has officially canceled its upcoming football game against Farrell, which was scheduled for Friday, September 5, 2025. The announcement was shared through a post on social media, leading to notifications sent to the Farrell Area School District. This decision follows a troubling 200-page federal civil rights lawsuit filed against Ursuline High School earlier this week, igniting serious allegations of hazing and sexual assault within the school’s football program.
The lawsuit claims that a freshman football player was subjected to hazing and sexually assaulted by teammates during a football camp held from June 12-20, 2025. Reports indicate that these incidents included both physical and sexual assault, some of which were allegedly filmed and shared on the team’s Snapchat group chat. The accusations assert that coaching staff trivialized the events, dismissing them as “just boys being boys,” and failed to conduct a thorough investigation of the claims made against the students involved.
In light of the recent allegations, Ursuline High School has stated that it initiated an investigation once the formal report was made by the alleged victim’s family. They confirmed that both the Catholic Diocese of Youngstown and the Youngstown Police Department were notified regarding the serious nature of these claims. The Diocese has stated that they have conducted a timely investigation and are cooperating with law enforcement, denying any attempts to conceal the incidents.
Disciplinary action has reportedly been taken against some of the students most directly connected to the allegations. However, specific details regarding these measures remain undisclosed. Some students allegedly involved in the incidents had already departed from the football program prior to any disciplinary actions being applied. Further developments will follow once the Youngstown Police Department completes its ongoing investigation.
The lawsuit not only targets Ursuline High School, but it also implicates 11 unnamed football players, Head Coach Dan Reardon, two assistant coaches, and the Catholic Diocese of Youngstown. The lead counsel representing the plaintiffs highlighted the importance of accountability while condemning the school’s previous inaction in safeguarding its students from harmful behaviors.
Additional individuals have come forward since the lawsuit’s filing, potentially expanding the scope of alleged misconduct within the football program. The incidents detailed in the legal complaint reflect a longstanding culture of hazing at the school, where intimidation and fears of retaliation have reportedly silenced victims and their families, including threats directed toward the alleged victim’s sister.
Growing concerns over misinformation circulating on social media have contributed to heightened public interest in this case. The unfolding events have raised questions about the culture within Ursuline High School’s athletic programs and the responsibilities held by coaches and school administrators to protect their students.
As the investigation by the Youngstown Police Department continues, the community remains on edge, awaiting further disclosures regarding the school’s administrative actions and support measures for the alleged victims.
FAQ
What led to the cancellation of the football game?
The cancellation of the football game against Farrell is due to a federal lawsuit alleging hazing and sexual assault within the Ursuline High School football program.
What are the specific allegations in the lawsuit?
The lawsuit alleges that a freshman was hazed and sexually assaulted by teammates during a team camp, with some incidents being recorded and shared.
How has Ursuline High School responded to the allegations?
Ursuline High School stated that they promptly opened an investigation and reported the allegations to the Catholic Diocese of Youngstown and the Youngstown Police Department.
What steps are being taken by law enforcement?
The Youngstown Police Department is currently conducting an investigation into the allegations detailed in the lawsuit.
Key Features of the Case
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Allegations | Hazing and sexual assault during football camp |
| Lawsuit Filed | 200-page federal civil rights lawsuit |
| Key Dates | Football camp: June 12-20, 2025 |
| Investigation Status | Opened by Ursuline High School; ongoing by Youngstown Police |
| Entities Involved | Ursuline High School, Diocese of Youngstown, multiple players and coaches |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- WKYC: Ursuline High School Lawsuit
- WFMJ: Ursuline Football Game Canceled
- WKBN: Ursuline Family Files Lawsuit
- Beacon Journal: Ohio High School Football Hazing Lawsuit
- WFMJ: National Hazing Attorney Weighs In
- Wikipedia: Hazing
- Google Search: Ursuline High School football hazing
- Google Scholar: Hazing
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Hazing
- Google News: Ursuline High School hazing lawsuit
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