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April 04, 2015

Hazing allegations for SJU softball team

College Hazing
St. Joe's logo St. Joseph's University/sjuhawks.com

The St. Joe's hawk logo.

Saint Joseph's University is investigating allegations of hazing within their softball team.

6 ABC reports that new members of the team were allegedly given written instructions to acts they needed to perform in order to show upperclassmen respect and threatened consequences if they were not carried out. Those acts included sexual acts, according to ABC:
Sources say the students being initiated had to consume alcohol, perform acts involving inappropriate touching, perform lap dances for upperclassman on the team, mimic various sex acts and other allegations too graphic to be outlined.

According to Philly.com, four students have already been suspended. The university released a statement concerning the allegations Friday, saying that the allegations are being investigated:

"Saint Joseph’s University is aware of allegations involving members of the women’s varsity softball team.  SJU has responded via applicable Community Standards procedures for investigating such allegations and, if warranted, determining disciplinary action.  While its investigation of the matter is ongoing, remedial actions have already been taken to assure the welfare and educational environment for all involved.  Due to federal student privacy regulations, there can and will be no additional comment by the University at this time."

A former player told Philly.com that none of the alleged hazing occurred while she was on the team. However, university spokesman Joe Lunardi told 6 ABC that there are "multiple versions of the same event" after interviews with athletes, coaches and staff members. 



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