Ursuline principal issues statement on inappropriate behavior of football team members

Ursuline High School principal Matthew Sammartino, on Friday, released a statement regarding an incident involving football team members that occurred during a team trip in June.

In July, a previous statement went out to parents that read, in part:

“We are currently investigating a report of inappropriate behavior involving members of the football team during a recent team trip. As always, we take concerns about student conduct very seriously and are committed to addressing them in alignment with our school’s code of conduct and the values we strive to instill in every student. Parents of the students directly involved have been contacted, and we are working with the appropriate authorities to ensure a thorough and fair review of the situation.”

Further details regarding the incident are unclear with school officials stating it was important to limited information given due to the need to protect student confidentiality during an active investigation.

The Friday, Aug. 22 statement reads as follows:

At Ursuline High School, the safety, well-being, education, and character development of our students are our highest priorities. Earlier this summer, we shared a message regarding a report of inappropriate behavior involving a limited number of members of the football team during a June team trip. The isolated incident was immediately reported to the police and the Diocese of Youngstown by school personnel. There has never been and will never be any attempt to cover up the incident.

We continue to work with appropriate authorities to ensure a thorough and fair review of the matter. While we are unable to share specific details due to student privacy laws, any concerns related to student behavior were addressed in accordance with the Ursuline High School Code of Conduct and any future findings from the authorities will be dealt with accordingly.

We remain committed to reviewing our policies and procedures to help prevent incidents like this in the future. In addition, teams and coaches will receive further training to support a safe, positive, and inclusive team environment.

We understand that this situation has continued to draw attention on mass media and social media, including the spread of misinformation and speculation. We also recognize how difficult it can be when answers are limited due to the need to protect student confidentiality.

Thank you for your continued partnership and understanding.

Youngstown police are investigating the incident and a diocese spokesperson said no employee is on leave while the investigation is conducted.