Nicole Fuentes
Patchogue-Medford basketball players were taunted on Friday, Dec. 6, during the varsity boys basketball game held at West Islip High School.
According to the Pat-Med School District, players were “verbally taunted” by opposing players with “highly inappropriate racial remarks” after losing the game to West Islip, 48-38.
Patchogue-Medford athletic director Anthony Cracco issued a statement:
“I am writing to address an unfortunate incident that occurred following yesterday’s basketball game against West Islip. Some fans directed taunts and racial slurs at our players, an act that is both unacceptable and deeply troubling.”
Following the incident, the West Islip Athletic director, Tim Horan, worked with administration to collect evidence to ensure that those involved were held accountable. Also, on behalf of the West Islip community, Horan extended sincere apologies to the Pat-Med players and to the entire school community.
Additionally, West Islip superintendent Paul Romanelli also issued a letter, noting all students involved in the incident were identified and held accountable.
“It goes without saying that this type of behavior is both concerning, and completely unacceptable,” he wrote in the letter to the community. “We have been in contact with members of the administrative team from the Patchogue-Medford School District to apologize for the actions of our students.”
However, neither punishments nor the remarks released.
If any witnesses can provide additional information, Cracco requested they forward details to him by email at: acracco@pmschools.org.
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