ELYRIA, Ohio — Last week, members of the Orange High School boys lacrosse team reported being subjected to antisemitic slurs during a junior varsity game against Elyria Catholic High School on Monday, May 1.
On Wednesday, Elyria Catholic/Diocese of Cleveland announced that it had concluded its investigation into the matter, finding that despite conflicting testimony, it was "reasonable to conclude that an inappropriate comment was made."
"Consistent with this conclusion and school policy, Elyria Catholic will take appropriate disciplinary and restorative action," the Diocese of Cleveland said in its statement. "Elyria Catholic High School and the Catholic Diocese of Cleveland are committed to forming students according to the foundational principle that all people are created in the image and likeness of God and, as a result, deserve to be treated with respect and kindness.
"Additionally, Elyria Catholic will be using this occasion as an opportunity to further its efforts to instill in its students God’s love for all people by partnering with the American Jewish Committee and the Maltz Museum to provide programming for students that will help to build bridges among people of all faiths and cultures."
The allegations were first made public last week, when Orange City Schools District Superintendent Dr. Lynn Campbell sent an email to the district's families and staff members informing them of the matter.
"The safety and wellbeing of students is our top priority," Campbell wrote. "Part of that safety includes making sure students are treated fairly and respectfully and making it clear that the District condemns the type of behavior alleged to be involved here."
The incident comes nearly one year after a Lake Catholic High School varsity lacrosse player was pictured wearing a swastika on his calf during a game against Orange. An investigation later found a teammate had put the symbol on the player's leg without the player knowing. As a result, the student responsible was barred from Lake Catholic graduation ceremonies and required to complete a Jewish heritage program, and head coach Chris Hastings resigned. Lake Catholic did not field a boys lacrosse team this season after failing to find a replacement.