Reedsburg Football Team Amish : The Reedsburg Area High School football team, based in Reedsburg, Wisconsin, finds itself at the center of controversy following allegations that have shaken the small town and resulted in the cancellation of the team’s first two games of the 2024 season. The investigation involves nine players who were cited for disorderly conduct, a development that has left the community grappling with disappointment and concern.
What Sparked the Investigation?
The investigation began when the Sauk County Sheriff’s Department received multiple reports of harassment directed toward members of the local Amish community. The reports prompted extra patrols in the rural areas surrounding Reedsburg. During these patrols, deputies identified a suspect vehicle linked to the disturbances. Following the investigation, nine juveniles from Reedsburg were cited for disorderly conduct. While Sauk County Sheriff Chip Meister confirmed that some of the individuals involved were members of the Reedsburg High School football team, it remains unclear if all nine cited juveniles are part of the team.
The Allegations
The allegations against the students are serious and have caused considerable outrage. According to social media speculation and reports, the students allegedly engaged in a series of disturbing acts against the Amish community. These acts reportedly included vandalizing property such as a school and a barn, throwing firecrackers, and shooting paintballs at horses owned by Amish families. These actions not only endangered lives but also disrupted the peace in a community known for its tranquility and tight-knit nature.
School’s Response
In response to the investigation and the severity of the allegations, Reedsburg Area High School took the drastic step of canceling the football team’s first two games of the season, including their scheduled opener on August 23 and a subsequent game on August 30. This decision underscores the school’s commitment to upholding its values and maintaining the integrity of its programs, even when it means making difficult choices.
Reedsburg Area High School principal Katie Mathews expressed the school’s deep regret over the situation, particularly for the senior athletes who will now face a shortened final season. “We are devastated that many of our student athletes will be missing out on contests. In particular, we empathize with our seniors who will be facing a shortened season this year,” Mathews stated. “However, above all, we are a teaching and learning institution. While this, without question, is a painful learning experience, we will never compromise the integrity of the Reedsburg Area High School or its students, staff, and families, and we will not let it define us.”
Moving Forward
As the investigation continues, the Sauk County Sheriff’s Department has not released further details due to the involvement of juveniles. The community, meanwhile, is left to reflect on the implications of these actions and their impact on both the football program and the town’s reputation.
If no further changes are made to the schedule, the Reedsburg High School football team is expected to begin its season on September 6 against Central High School at UW-La Crosse. However, the shadow of this investigation and the actions of a few individuals will likely linger over the season, serving as a stark reminder of the consequences of harmful behavior.
Conclusion
The Reedsburg High School football team’s involvement in harassing the Amish community has led to a significant disruption in their 2024 season. With the first two games canceled and an ongoing investigation, the school and the community are facing a challenging situation that highlights the importance of accountability and respect for all individuals, regardless of their background. As the story continues to unfold, it serves as a cautionary tale about the impact of actions both on and off the field.
