Sports
Stonington superintendent apologizes after fan’s remarks toward New London football players
STONINGTON – Stonington Superintendent of Schools Timothy Smith has apologized after a fan made what he called an “inappropriate comment” toward New London players following Friday night’s high school football game.
New London won the game, 71-0. Afterward, a video was posted on social media containing audio taken from fans in the bleachers from the NFHS Network broadcast of the game. In it, a voice reacts to New London players who were accused of trying to rip the padding from around the goalpost nearest the scoreboard. The voice can be heard saying: “You going to let these animals do that? Get them on the bus.”
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Smith addressed the incident in a statement posted on the Stonington schools website.
“This weekend, I learned that a fan at Friday night’s football game made an inappropriate comment, and I want to remind our community of the district’s expectations for civility and respect for all student-athletes. Athletic events are an extension of the classroom, and the lessons we teach and learn on the field must demonstrate respect for all.”
He also apologized directly to New London in the statement.
“I offer my sincere apologies to the New London coaches, fans, and, most importantly, athletes, and I want to assure everyone that this incident does not reflect the standards and aspirations of the Stonington community.”
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Smith’s statement cited the Stonington Board of Education’s Civility Policy, which encourages mutual respect and civil conduct and commits to holding individuals responsible for their behavior. The policy also allows the district to punish fans for their behavior.
“This policy must be followed, and all of our athletes and fans must represent Stonington in a way that supports a safe, welcoming, and nurturing environment on school property and at school-related activities. Please understand that we have the right and the responsibility to remove anyone who violates this policy, and help us to avoid doing so by letting good sportsmanship shine throughout all future events.”
Smith told The Day of New London an investigation into the incident was under way. A message left by CT Insider seeking further comment from Smith Tuesday afternoon was not immediately returned.
New London coach Jack Cochran placed the blame on the individual fan and not on Stonington’s players, coaches, school or town in a social media post.
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“Please understand that Head Coach Ryan Francis of Stonington HS and his staff in no way shape or form had anything to do with the Racist Comments made towards our young men on Friday night,” Cochran wrote. “I strongly believe Coach Francis to be a stand up guy and would never allow such a thing from any of his staff. Please understand it was one person and I’m confident was not part of their staff. Let’s all move on from this and learn from it please.”
This article originally published at Stonington superintendent apologizes after fan’s remarks toward New London football players.
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