'Deeply Sorry': Salem, Saugus Parents Fight In Youth Football Stands

SAUGUS, MA — A slate of youth football games were canceled Sunday morning after an argument between a Salem and Saugus parent led to a fight involving up to a half-dozen people that left one woman injured, according to Saugus Police Chief Michael Ricciardelli.

Police said witnesses reported the fight shortly before 10 a.m. where "an argument erupted between a Salem and Saugus parent that turned physical."

Police said that one woman was treated at Saugus Stadium for her injuries and did not require hospitalization.

"When officers got there, those individuals involved in the fight quickly disbursed and no one was arrested," Ricciardelli said in a statement provided to Patch. "As for what started the fight, Saugus police will not speculate but the game was canceled and games for the rest of the day have been canceled as well."

Saugus Youth Football & Cheer organizers issued a statement on social media on Sunday saying they "deeply apologize to all families and their athletes for the great disappointments of the day."

"The actions that occurred today are not the standards we set as a league," the statement said. "Youth sports is a place for children to learn, gain confidence, and find a love for playing the game. It is in moments like this that we can reflect on our purpose as guardians and mentors and take the time to teach our children that the actions of today are not the norm and negatively effects everyone involved; most primarily the children."

Officials urged parents to "please talk to your children about right and wrong" and to "use the mistakes of others as a teaching moment."

"Tell them we are proud of their clean play and impeccable effort," Saugus officals said. "And tell them we are sorry their fun was spoiled.

"To the families of the teams whose games were cancelled: Your athletes work hard all week and don't deserve this disappointment."

Efforts will be made to reschedule the games through the conference based on the availability of field space and officials.

"We will continue to grow and earn your trust," Saugus youth football officials said. "I am deeply sorry and hope to continue to improve our league moving forward."

(Scott Souza is a Patch field editor covering Beverly, Danvers, Marblehead, Peabody, Salem and Swampscott. He can be reached at Scott.Souza@Patch.com. X/Twitter: @Scott_Souza.)