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WPIAL announces decision after investigation into racial slurs during game

A decision was announced Wednesday in an investigation into racial slurs allegedly directed toward Penn Hills soccer players during a game against Connellsville.

The incident reportedly happened at a varsity boys’ soccer game in September, prompting the Penn Hills School District to cancel all sporting events against Connellsville schools.

It was alleged that Penn Hills players were subjected to racial slurs by players and fans from Connellsville.

STORY: Penn Hills soccer players allegedly subject to racial slurs by players, fans from Connellsville

According to a news release Wednesday, the WPIAL Board of Directors Hearing Panel “was unable to determine with certainty that Connellsville players or spectators did, or did not, direct racial slurs at Penn Hills players” during the game at Connellsville.

A hearing was held Monday after the WPIAL received conflicting reports from the schools.

The hearing panel found information and testimony from Penn Hills to be “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,” Wednesday’s release said.

It was noted in the release that the hearing panel believes any such incidents were likely isolated and are not representative of the Connellsville Area School District.

In light of the investigation, Connellsville will be required to implement an action plan and engage an outside consultant to assist in addressing and training its student-athletes regarding racial and cultural sensitivity, the release said. A letter outlining the specific steps it intends to take will need to be submitted to the WPIAL Board of Directors by Oct. 15.

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