ROCKDALE COUNTY, Ga. — A metro Atlanta superintendent is speaking out after an altercation between two high school football teams led to the cancellation of Friday night’s game.
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The game between Rockdale County High School and Heritage High School was scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Friday, but it was called off after a fight broke out on the field during pregame warmups around 5:45 p.m., according to authorities and school district officials.
Channel 2 Action News cameras were at the stadium as deputies stood in the end zone following the incident.
In a statement released Saturday, Rockdale County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Stephanie Johnson said the district is investigating what happened and warned that those found responsible could face consequences.
“Unfortunately, due to an altercation that occurred on the field during pregame warmups, the decision was made to cancel the August 28th Heritage High School vs. Rockdale County High School football game,” Johnson said.
Johnson said she understands the cancellation may be disappointing for student-athletes, coaches, families and supporters, but said safety must remain the district’s highest priority.
“The behavior displayed does not reflect the values of sportsmanship, respect, and integrity that we expect from all participants representing our schools and community,” Johnson said.
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The district said it is working with all parties involved to gather information and review evidence.
Individuals found to have violated district policies, athletic codes of conduct or expectations for student behavior will be “held accountable and subject to appropriate consequences,” according to Johnson.
Johnson also stated that athletics should help students develop character, leadership, teamwork and discipline.
“We expect all student-athletes, coaches, and spectators to demonstrate good sportsmanship before, during, and after every competition,” Johnson said. “Acts of aggression, intimidation, or unsportsmanlike conduct will not be tolerated in Rockdale County Public Schools.”
Authorities have not said whether anyone was injured or whether anyone will face criminal charges.
It remains unclear whether the canceled game will be rescheduled.
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Also on Friday night, the Coweta County Sheriff’s Office confirmed to Channel 2 Action News that a fight broke out between three young men, ages 16, 17 and 18, at the Newnan High School and East Coweta High School game.
School system officials later said five people were placed into custody after the fight near the home-side concession stand, but did not confirm if all of them are students.