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Griffith High School Appeals Suspension After Basketball Brawl

By John Dodge

CHICAGO (CBS) -- Just days after accepting a season-ending punishment for its involvement in a brawl during a boys basketball game, the School Town of Griffith is now appealing the decision.

"The district believes that a punishment is appropriate, but that the sanctions are both unprecedented and overly severe," Griffith Superintendent Peter Morikis said in a statement issued on Friday.

"We have respectfully requested IHSAA review of the circumstances."

The Indiana High School Athletic Association on Tuesday suspended both basketball teams for the rest of the season. The suspension applies for teams at all levels, not just the varsity team.

The fight happened early in a varsity game last weekend between Hammond and Griffith when a Hammond player pushed a Griffith player who was driving to the basket. The foul sent the Griffith player crashing into a padded wall.

Players from both teams stormed the court, followed by some fans. Police were called to restore order and the game was ended.

Both schools were also placed on probation for the entire 2015-16 school year.

Other sanctions:

  • The teams will not receive any revenue from the upcoming sectional tournament.
  • Each basketball coach (paid and voluntary) from both schools shall
    complete a teaching and modeling behavior course.
  • Each varsity student‐athlete from both schools shall complete the sportsmanship course

Morikis issued this statement on Tuesday: "The Griffith Public Schools Board of School Trustees and Administration support the IHSAA decision. We are committed to moving forward in a positive direction, and will work together on positive sportsmanship for all students."

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