Lisbon High Revives Football Spirit After Scandal
A Troubling Chapter Comes to a Close
Lisbon High School has faced a turbulent period following a hazing scandal that forced the football team to forfeit the final four games of the 2024 season. The scandal initially led to a two-year ban under the Maine Principals’ Association’s rules, casting a shadow over the school’s cherished football legacy. However, the team’s comeback for the 2025 season has now been validated.
A Path to Redemption
Through an appeal that saw a close 5-2 vote by the MPA Interscholastic Management Committee, Lisbon High’s football team has been cleared to return to varsity status. As stated by Richard Green, the Superintendent, several new measures are being introduced to ensure the team’s safe and positive future. These steps allow the community to look ahead with hope while reflecting on the pivotal lessons learned.
Lessons in Ethics and Oversight
The investigation into the hazing incidents of October 2024 uncovered behavior far removed from what the community expects of its youth. Allegations included upperclassmen using leather belts as weapons and subjecting freshmen to broom pokes, on-campus and in the privacy of the boys’ locker room. While charges were not pursued, the incidents have sparked strong resolve within the school to bolster oversight and educational practices.
Superintendent Speaks Out
In an emotional admission, Green expressed his belief that the boys involved in the scandal acted “100% unacceptably” and asserted that the school has since taken steps to institute rigorous oversight and training measures. His commitment to preventing future incidents shines a light on the proactive stance Lisbon High is adopting moving forward.
“With that being said I also believe that we have learned a hard lesson and have put many measures in place that will require increased oversight of the management and supervision of all of our athletic and co-curricular programs,” Green stated. According to WGME, these promises assure that they’ll pursue any necessary actions to prevent a recurrence.
Looking to the Future
With the reinstatement of the football team, the community now faces the task of rebuilding trust and camaraderie among students and staff. The decision to bring back the team serves as both a promise of rebirth in school spirit and a clarion call to uphold ethical standards.
Lisbon High enters 2025 stronger with renewed dedication to its football program, demonstrating resilience in the face of adversity and setting a precedent for what a community can achieve when accountability and reform go hand in hand.
