CB West Football Season Cancelled Amid Allegations of Hazing, Torture

The football season at Central Bucks High School West in Doylestown has been canceled as officials reportedly investigate allegations of torture and hazing.

Both the varsity and junior varsity seasons have been canceled and the teams’ coaches have been suspended effective immediately, the district announced Thursday.

The district would not release details of the investigation but The Intelligencer reported that allegations include waterboarding and teammates forcing other players to touch their genitalia.

In a statement Thursday, Superintendent David Weitzel announced that Friday’s homecoming game against Central Bucks High School East has been canceled. The final game scheduled for Oct. 31 has also been canceled.

“Swift and firm action is absolutely necessary,” Weitzel said.

In an interview with The Intelligencer, Central Bucks Regional Police Department Chief James Donnelly said police were called in to investigate reports of hazing, including alleged waterboarding. Waterboarding is a form of torture in which water is poured over a cloth covering someone’s face, simulating the sensation of drowning.

One of the team’s younger players also said he was held down while his hair was cut, according to NBC10.

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The allegations came to light on Oct. 14. An investigation began immediately, according to the district.

Weitzel said the team and its coaches were notified of the cancellation Thursday. “They must and will be held to a high standard of responsibility and accountability consistent with our rules and regulations,” Weitzel said of the coaches.

Weitzel said the allegations from the ongoing investigation show that “numerous” players were involved in the improper conduct. He also said there was a “failure of the coaching staff to properly supervise activities.”

In his statement, Weitzel apologized to any member of the football program who was subjected to the “demeaning actions” of teammates “who should have served as role models.”

The District’s Code of Conduct specifically prohibits students from engaging in any acts of hazing or initiation ceremonies. “There will be no exceptions when it comes to compliance,” Weitzel said.

The school district said it will have no more comment on the matter until Tuesday, when it will be discussed at a school board meeting.

Earlier this month, the Sayreville School District in New Jersey canceled its high school football season due to allegations of hazing and sexual assault. The incidents generated widespread media coverage, including from CNN and Sports Illustrated.