As athletes, everyone goes through the common hard practices, rival games, and celebratory victories. The behind-the-scenes that either make or break a team are the bonding practices that inform team culture. As many have heard the breaking news within D219, the Niles North Varsity Football Team is investigating a possible hazing incident. Between what happened at Wheaton College and the more local allegations, it seems like that’s all anyone is talking about, especially athletes.

Many kids and faculty have strong opinions about the suspension of the varsity football program at North. As the investigation unfolds, the only thing we can do is consider hazing in general. Being an upperclassman, I would never think of hazing underclassmen in the first place. Specifically being a junior or senior, the bar is raised and we are expected to hold ourselves accountable for everything we do. Those who choose to haze misrepresent their program and school.

Talking with past football players at Niles West, many felt concern for the present athletes. Especially those that may go on to play at the college level. Past players felt the program suspension was unnecessary and extremely detrimental to the future of their program. A majority said that hazing can cause serious damage. They agree that those involved either need support or should be punished.

The other concern is the reaction from parents. Of course, every parent hopes that their child is raised properly and has respect for others. Parents of those who are under investigation may question how they have disciplined their child or think the school is over-reacting; however, the parents of those athletes who were targeted are also extremely affected. Parents put their trust in the school and now the security of their children comes into question.

Niles West athletes are taking steps to clarify where we stand, and it’s important for us to focus on prevention and awareness within the district. Athletes, especially varsity athletes, are supposed to perform at the highest level and represent their program to the highest degree. They are not supposed to go after underclassmen, those who typically look to them for guidance and leadership. In the end, varsity athletes need to be the example.