Investigation into incident involving Lake Catholic boys lacrosse team concludes
May 25—The Catholic Diocese of Clevelad has concluded its investigation into an incident involving the Lake Catholic boys lacrosse program in which a player had a swastika on his leg during their playoff game against Orange on May 16.
The diocese released a statement on May 25.
According to the diocese, one player drew a swastika on his hand prior to the game with eye black and pressed it against one player's leg and two other teammates' arms. The latter two saw theirs before the game and removed them before taking the field.
The player with the swastika on his calf was unaware of it until during the game and it was removed before the end of the game.
Regarding a report of players, staff and fans saying anti-Semitic slurs during and after the game, the diocese was unable to find any proof that occurred.
The player responsible for putting the mark on his teammates was barred from Lake Catholic's commencement ceremony and will not receive his diploma until completing assigned community service.
The entire Cougar team will be required to attend an instructive and restorative program at the Maltz Museum of Jewish Heritage. Any seniors are unable to receive final transcripts until the completion of the program.
Lastly, an adult photographer who used profane language is banned from acting in an official capacity at future school events.
The Catholic Diocese of Cleveland included the following in their statement following the investigation:
"Since learning of the allegations, Lake Catholic and the diocese have worked to gather all the facts as quickly as possible, with the goal being to appropriately punish wrongdoing and to use the opportunity to reinforce the universal truth that each person is made in the image of an all good and loving God and deserving of respect and love."
Both head coach Chris Hastings and an assistant have resigned as well.
