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The remainder of the HS football season was canceled for Newburgh Free Academy due to the whistleblowing allegations

Online Niel November 7, 2024

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

Last Friday night homecoming festivities were canceled at Newburgh Free Academy in Orange County, but the superintendent announced Tuesday that the rest of the season will be canceled as well.

“While I regret this outcome, it is a necessary step as we continue to gather information, support those who were affected and ensure accountability for those involved,” said Dr. Jackielyn Manning Campbell, Superintendent of Schools for the Newburgh Enlarged City School District .

The allegations involved members of both the JV and Varsity football teams, and the incident in question left a varsity football player injured. Officials said they became aware of the alleged violations of the student code of conduct on Oct. 25.

Sources told Eyewitness News that the incident began as horseplay after a practice got out of hand. The players started throwing chairs at each other, which left one student with serious bruises.

The district said the incident involved multiple people, was non-sexual, but represented significant violations of the code of conduct.

“I recognize that some of our students and families may feel frustrated and believe they are being unfairly penalized for the actions of a few,” Campbell said. “I want to reiterate that the safety and well-being of all our scholars remains my top priority. The timing of the district information was unfortunate as it impacted unrelated student activities and resulted in the cancellation of the athletic season. As superintendent, I must ensure that this investigation is thorough and remains free of outside influence.”