Homewood-Flossmoor High School District 233 plans to limit admission and increase security at football games in response to several fights that escalated at Friday night’s football game against Bolingbrook, according to Carla Erdey, District 233 director of communications and community engagement.
Flossmoor police Chief Carl Estelle confirmed police were called to the game Friday night and said there were multiple incidents that escalated into fights.
Estelle said there appeared to be at least five fights, and because there were so many altercations in one evening numerous people were detained during the football game.
No individuals were brought back to the station, however. Estelle said individuals were handcuffed but released once the fights calmed down.
He said police were working with the school district to review its video footage, and said police will make decisions seperately from the school district when determining if there will be any charges.
Erdey said in a statement Tuesday the school cannot provide specific information about minors involved. The events did not involve the opposing team or its spectators, she said.
“Homewood-Flossmoor High School is deeply disappointed by the behavior of several individuals at last Friday’s football game,” Superintendent Jennifer Norrell said in a statement Tuesday. “Their actions do not reflect the pride, respect, and sportsmanship that define Viking Excellence.”
The game, the first of the school year, was billed as the school’s Salute to Service, with an invitation to active duty military members and veterans to come and he honored during halftime.
One parent in a Facebook post said she she saw at least four students in handcuffs and urged parents to speak with their children about appropriate behavior.
Another high school parent, whose son attended the game, posted on the school’s Facebook page about the fight, asking what would be done to make sure students are safe at games.
There was no response to the comment, but Erdey said the district is taking steps “to ensure future events reflect the safe, supportive, and respectful environment our community deserves.”
These new protocols, which Erdey said will be defined before the next game, include limiting admission to only students with valid Homewood-Flossmoor High School IDs. Adults 21 years or older will have to show a valid driver’s license or state ID, and anyone ages 18-20 must be H-F alumni and complete a registration and verification.
Erdey also said there will be increased supervision and security, and “continued focus on Viking Pride and sportsmanship.”
“We remain committed to creating positive experiences for our athletes, families, and guests at all H-F events,” Erdey said.
awright@chicagotribune.com
