Connect with us

High School

WPIAL finds Penn Hills allegations as ‘reasonably credible’

From local news reports

WPIAL has released its decision regarding alleged racial slurs used during a boys’ soccer match between Penn Hills and Connellsville high schools.

Representatives from both schools testified before the WPIAL board on Monday.

Penn Hills officials complained that some of their players heard racial slurs. Connellsville officials denied it.

In the decision released late Wednesday morning, the board said it, “was unable to determine with certainty” that racial slurs were used.

However, they did find the allegations from Penn Hills were “reasonably credible” and “believes it is likely that at least some racial slurs or racially-insensitive comments were directed to a Penn Hills player or players.”

The board has decided Connellsville will be required to implement an action plan and hire an outside consultant for racial sensitivity training.

Connellsville must also submit a letter to the WPIAL board outlining the steps the district plans to take.

The board also says all future games between Penn Hills and Connellsville will be played and both schools should make sure their students display good sportsmanship.

John Krysinsky has covered soccer and other sports for many years for various publications and media outlets. He is also author of 'Miracle on the Mon' -- a book about the Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC, which chronicles the club, particularly the early years of Highmark Stadium with the narrative leading up to and centered around a remarkable match that helped provide a spark for the franchise. John has covered sports for Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, DK Pittsburgh Sports, Pittsburgh Sports Report, has served as color commentator on Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC broadcasts, and worked with OPTA Stats and broadcast teams for US Open Cup and International Champions Cup matches held in the US. Krysinsky also served as the Head Men’s Soccer Coach at his alma mater, Point Park University, where he led the Pioneers to the first-ever winning seasons and playoff berths (1996-98); head coach of North Catholic boys (2007-08), associate head coach of Shady Side Academy boys (2009-2014).

Glory on the Grass

Riverhounds MF Kenardo Forbes

Subscribe to PGH Soccer Now

Enter your email address to subscribe to PGH Soccer Now and receive notifications of new posts by email.

More in High School