PITTSBURGH — Following a lengthy hearing this week, the Western Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic League (WPIAL) decided to require diversity training for football players from Steel Valley and South Side Area high schools.
“The board did take the initiative to educate, as opposed to instill any discipline,” said WPIAL Executive Director Amy Scheuneman. “We felt this was the best approach in this situation.”
Mandatory participation in this educational program focusing on diversity and inclusion comes after Steel Valley players accused South Side players of using racial slurs during their Nov. 12 playoff game in Munhall.
>>PREVIOUS STORY: WPIAL investigating claims of racist comments from players during Steel Valley, South Side game
“The issues at hand are a lot of racial insensitivity, as well as unsportsmanlike actions,” said Scheuneman.
The league’s decision to require the training for both teams came after members heard from players, coaches and officials involved in the Nov. 12 game.
“In order to mend the situation and try to correct behavior, we thought it was necessary for both sides to be involved. Therefore, the next time both were to come together, there wouldn’t be tension where one was right and one was wrong,” said Scheuneman.
If either team fails to complete the training, they could face further discipline from the league, including a ban from the postseason.
This browser does not support the video element.