Agawam football players accused of hazing

AGAWAM, Mass. -- It’s as much a Thanksgiving Day tradition in Western Massachusetts as the turkey and the stuffing.

But this year, the high school football game between Agawam and West Springfield might be cancelled. It’s all because of a hazing incident that’s left four players and four coaches suspended.

Lisa Booth and her daughter Lauren Booth, a cheerleader for the Agawam football team, are disappointed that their town could be sidelined this year as the Thanksgiving game against long-time rival West Springfield hangs in the balance.

“It’s a big deal for Agawam and West Springfield, and I think West Springfield would, you know, be missing out on something as well,” said Lisa Booth.

“I think it’s pretty sad I guess, because its only a few kids and the whole school and West side are going to get affected,” said Lauren Booth.

While no details have been released, Agawam schools superintendent Mary Czajkowski said that a hazing incident did happen inside the boy’s locker room on Wednesday night after practice. Four students are suspended from the team and school for 10 days.

The school and Agawam police are investigating. Meanwhile, a former student said locker room incidents like this are nothing new.

“I think it’s blown out of proportion. It’s something that’s been going on in Agawam for years, what not, and there was no harm to the matter. No kids got hurt or anything,” said Mike Rigali, the brother of a football player.

Czajkowski disagrees. While none of the seven victims were hurt, she said hazing - which is against the law - will not be tolerated.

She has put all Thanksgiving week events tied to the football team, including the annual pep rally, bon fire and football game, on hold pending her final decision.

Meanwhile, players, parents and communities of Agawam and West Springfield are keeping their fingers crossed.

“That’s your Super Bowl, pretty much. Everyone comes home to watch this game. It’s something you never get back,” said Rigali.

No decision on the game will be made until Monday.

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