Harford Tech Games Canceled Last Week Amid Investigation, Play Resumes Thursday

BEL AIR, MD — An incident involving students on Harford Tech High School's varsity and junior varsity football teams prompted leaders to cancel last Thursday's games against Elkton.

Leaders did not disclose what, specifically, the incident was, but that it was being investigated. Jillian Lader, spokesperson for Harford County Public Schools, wrote in an email that the district didn't anticipate the rest of the football team's season being canceled, reported The Aegis.

No other details were made available by school leaders.

Harford Tech principal Erin Mock said in a message sent to parents Tuesday and obtained by The Aegis on Friday: “As some of you may be aware, an incident occurred among students on our football teams. The events have resulted in canceling JV and varsity practice tonight, Tuesday, Sept. 9, while an investigation occurs. I want our families to know that we take every incident very seriously and are conducting a thorough investigation, cooperating thoroughly with our [school resource officer], law enforcement partners and Child Protective Services. We are speaking to all players and coaches.”

In a second message to parents from Mock on Wednesday, the principal confirmed the game cancellations and said they were “due to the ongoing investigation into the recent incident involving students on our football teams,” The Aegis reported.

“If you have information, including messages, images, or video, please share it directly with the school rather than passing it along to others,” Mock’s message added.

While details are limited, the investigation reportedly surrounds allegations of possible sexual assault against some team members, stated WMAR. The Harford County Sheriff's Office told WMAR Sunday that they were aware of the issue and are investigating.

Football practices resumed Sept. 15 for Harford Tech High School.

A Cecil County Public Schools official said last week that the cancellation resulted in forfeit victories for Elkton’s programs, reported the Cecil Whig.

Elkton’s varsity program will host Bel Air on Sept. 19 at 7 p.m. The junior varsity team will host Bel Air on Sept. 18 at 3:30 p.m.

Harford Tech's record now sits at 0-2. Play resumes Sept. 19 against Edgewood at 7 p.m.