HAMPTON -- Phoebus High School is being placed on 'warning' for three consecutive years after an investigation involving members of the high school football team.
Members of the Phoebus football team were accused of stealing items from the Battlefield High School team on December 11.
Hampton Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Linda Shifflette, launched a full investigation and then presented her report to the Virginia High School League (VHSL) in late December.
No details have been released on what items were stolen.
In the report, Dr. Shifflette outlined the punishments given to the eight players involved. Those included multiple-day suspensions and a ban from being on the sidelines for the first three consecutive regular season games during the 2011-2012 football season.
VHSL reviewed the full report and placed Phoebus High School on warning for three consecutive years. As defined in the VHSL handbook, 'cumulative warnings over a period of time may result in suspension or probation for that sport, academic activity or the school.'
The definition of 'warning' also states 'It is official notice that an inexcusable, unethical or unsportsmanlike action has occurred, is a matter of record, and that such an action must not be repeated.'
Dr. Shifflette stated 'The Hampton school division in no way condones such acts. We would ask that our community not let this incident, which involved the careless and embarrassing actions of a few players, taint the wonderful programs we have at Phoebus High School and throughout our entire division.'
