A shadow of alleged misconduct has fallen over Ursuline High School’s football program, leading to the cancellation of their highly anticipated game against Farrell (Pa.). The Ursuline Board of Directors made the difficult decision to call off the September 5, 2025, game, which was set to be held at Stambaugh Stadium, after a federal civil rights lawsuit was filed against the school. The Farrell Area School District was notified on Thursday, leaving fans and players grappling with the sudden change. The lawsuit names the school, its principal, assistant principal, head football coach Dan Reardon, two assistant coaches, the Catholic Diocese of Youngstown, and 11 football players and their parents as defendants.
Lawsuit Details: Hazing and Assault Allegations
The lawsuit, filed on September 2, 2025, in Northern Ohio’s U.S. District Court, contains disturbing allegations of hazing and sexual assault. According to the legal complaint, a former freshman student was allegedly subjected to multiple instances of hazing and sexual assault during a nine-day team camp in June 2025. The victim’s family further alleges that players recorded videos of the alleged assaults and shared them online. A central claim is that school coaches and administrators failed to adequately investigate or prevent the misconduct from occurring.
Attorney Subodh Chandra, representing the plaintiffs, has asserted that the lawsuit details a long-standing “culture of hazing” within the Ursuline football program. Chandra contends that the school’s “original sin” was the hiring, retention, and failure to properly supervise and train the coaching staff. These are serious accusations that strike at the heart of the school’s responsibility to protect its students.
Immediate Impact: Game Cancellation and Program Status
The cancellation of the game against Farrell is a significant blow to the Ursuline football program. Ranked 12th in the state, the team was looking forward to a competitive season. The abrupt halt to their schedule has undoubtedly shaken the players, coaches, and the wider school community. The game’s cancellation highlights the severity of the allegations and the school’s need to address them decisively.
School Response and Disciplinary Actions
Ursuline High School released a statement emphasizing that the safety and well-being of its students are the school’s top priority. The school reported that disciplinary actions have been taken against some students, while others have chosen to leave the program voluntarily. Ursuline also stated that measures have been implemented to enhance student safety, including an increased chaperone presence and mandatory training reviews. However, the lawsuit claims that the victim was never interviewed by school administrators, suggesting a potential cover-up. This starkly contrasts with the school’s public statements, raising questions about the thoroughness and transparency of their internal investigation.
Ongoing Investigations and Emerging Evidence
Since the lawsuit was filed, additional potential victims have reportedly come forward, adding further weight to the allegations. Attorney Chandra’s office has also obtained additional video evidence of alleged hazing and sexual assault, potentially strengthening the plaintiffs’ case. The matter has now attracted the attention of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies across four states, all of which are conducting independent investigations. The plaintiffs are reportedly cooperating fully with the federal investigation, indicating their commitment to seeking justice and accountability.
The Broader Implications of Alleged Misconduct
Culture of Hazing Allegations
The lawsuit’s central claim of a long-standing “culture of hazing” within the Ursuline football program raises serious concerns about the environment fostered by the coaching staff and the school administration. If proven true, these allegations suggest a systemic failure to protect students from harm and to address misconduct effectively. The implications extend beyond the immediate case, potentially impacting the school’s reputation and its ability to attract and retain students.
Legal and Reputational Consequences
The federal civil rights lawsuit presents Ursuline High School, the Catholic Diocese of Youngstown, and the individual defendants with significant legal and reputational challenges. A negative verdict could result in substantial financial penalties, as well as lasting damage to the school’s image. The allegations have already generated widespread media coverage, drawing scrutiny from parents, alumni, and the wider community. The school’s ability to navigate this crisis effectively will be crucial in mitigating the long-term consequences.
The Need for Systemic Change
Regardless of the outcome of the lawsuit and criminal investigations, the allegations against Ursuline High School underscore the critical need for systemic change in how schools address hazing and sexual assault. Schools must implement comprehensive policies and procedures to prevent misconduct, investigate allegations thoroughly, and hold perpetrators accountable. Equally important is fostering a culture of respect, responsibility, and bystander intervention, where students feel empowered to report wrongdoing without fear of retaliation. The future of Ursuline’s football program, and the school’s overall reputation, depends on its willingness to embrace meaningful reform.
Conclusion
The cancellation of Ursuline High School’s football game is a direct consequence of serious allegations detailed in a federal lawsuit. As investigations continue and more information surfaces, the school faces intense scrutiny and a critical need to address the alleged misconduct. The events surrounding Ursuline serve as a stark reminder of the importance of student safety, accountability, and proactive measures to prevent hazing and sexual assault in educational institutions.
