Wall HS Thanksgiving Football Game Canceled Over Hazing Probe

5 p.m. update: Off-Campus Sex Assault Probe Launched Amid Wall Hazing Scandal

WALL, NJ — Wall High School's Thanksgiving Football game against Manasquan has been canceled, putting an end to the season after reports of hazing and sexual assault involving members of the team came out last week.

"The decision has been made to end the football season and not play the Thanksgiving Day game," Wall Superintendent of Schools Tracy R. Handerhan said in a statement. "We acknowledge that this is difficult news for many in our community. Please be assured that the Mental Health Association of Monmouth County is working closely with the Wall High School counseling staff supporting students."

The team was also slated to play against Delsea Regional High School last Friday, but that game was canceled just one day after news of the allegations came out.

Related: Manasquan Tweaks Thanksgiving Game Lineup Amid Wall Hazing Probe

More details about the hazing probe will likely be discussed Tuesday night at the Board of Education meeting. Listed on the agenda items is "Superintendent's Report on Allegations." The meeting will be at 7:30 p.m. in the Wall High School auditorium.

School district officials confirmed last week that authorities were investigating the hazing allegations, at least one of which involves about half a dozen older players pinning down a younger player in the locker room, two parents told NJ.com.

Authorities are also investigating multiple sexual assault incidents involving female students at Wall High School, according to the same publication.

At least one student who was also implicated in the hazing allegations within the football program at the high school is facing a separate charge and has been accused of sexually assaulting at least one girl in an unrelated incident, according to New Jersey 101.5.

Three coaches have been put on leave at this point, a spokesperson from the New Jersey Education Association Dawn Hiltner told Patch.

"We have assigned NJEA attorneys to work with them," said Hiltner, adding that she was unsure of how long their leave would be.

On Friday, the superintendent and the Wall High School principal sent out a letter to parents slamming spread of rumors amid the investigation and offering counseling services to students impacted by the incidents.

"If you know of a student that is in need of support, please do not hesitate in reaching out to 732-556-2063," Handerhan reaffirmed on Tuesday in an email to the school community.

Have a news tip, correction or comment? Email catarina.moura@patch.com.