Explosive Revelation: Shocking Hazing Scandal Rocks Boston College's Swimming and Diving Program
Boston College suspends swimming and diving program indefinitely due to hazing The school took immediate action to address the issue, prioritizing the safety and well-being of its students
Boston College has indefinitely suspended its men's and women's swimming and diving program due to hazing incidents. The school stated that an investigation will be conducted by the Office of the Dean of Students in accordance with university policy, ensuring a fair and impartial adjudication through the student conduct process.
The Boston College Eagles were initially set to commence their season on October 7 against George Washington University. However, the university has made it explicitly clear that they have zero tolerance for hazing in any way. Despite the suspension, all Swimming and Diving student-athletes will still have access to the same academic and medical resources as other Boston College student-athletes.
The NCAA defines hazing as any action that is humiliating, intimidating, demeaning, or poses a threat to the health and safety of an individual who is joining, becoming a member, or maintaining membership in any organization. Participation in hazing, whether active or passive, is considered regardless of the individual's willingness to partake in these activities. Hazing sets an atmosphere where dignity and respect are lacking.
Both the mens and womens teams finished last out of 12 teams in the 2023 Atlantic Coast Conference championships.
The suspension comes amid a crackdown across college sports on hazing.
Northwestern University terminated the employment of Pat Fitzgerald, the head coach of its football program, in July, following the emergence of hazing allegations. As a result, the university is now dealing with multiple lawsuits. A thorough investigation, conducted independently and prior to Fitzgerald's dismissal, revealed compelling evidence of persistent hazing, encompassing coercive involvement, nudity, and demeaning sexual acts, as stated by university president Michael Schill in a letter issued in July.
Despite finding no "credible evidence" that Fitzgerald was aware of the alleged hazing, Schill noted that the head coach bears ultimate responsibility for the team's culture. Fitzgerald himself denies any knowledge of hazing within the program.
To address the hazing lawsuits, Northwestern appointed former US Attorney General Loretta Lynch in August to conduct an independent review of the culture and accountability mechanisms within the athletics department.
