East Stroudsburg University (ESU) campus police are under fire for allegedly participating in a hazing ritual with the women’s field hockey team. Because of the allegations, the team will not be playing in the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC) championships.
The team, however, said the act they are being punished for is a long-standing tradition and in no way should be considered hazing.
According to the poconorecord.com, ESU campus police chased members of the team throughout campus into surrounding neighborhoods on the evening of Oct. 4. The team was painting rocks near the field hockey field.
The report also says campus police participated in the hazing, per prior arrangements made by team leaders.
A request for an investigation of a potential violation of Pennsylvania’s anti-hazing law from the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education was sent to the Monroe County District Attorney’s office. Currently, the office is deciding whether or not it will investigate the case.
The office of university relations issued a statement saying:
“The allegations regarding student-athlete participation in hazing are being vigorously investigated by the university. Investigations are also being conducted as to possible staff involvement and the matter has been referred to law enforcement authorities. Disciplinary action, if warranted, will be taken by the university.”
Coach Sandy Miller and the team were informed on Oct. 29 that they would not participate in the championship.
All said the alleged hazing was part of the Parents’ Day tradition at ESU. On the eve of the event, members of the field hockey team paint messages to parents and family on rocks around the field. The tradition spans back to more than two decades.
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