Connell basketball teams banned from competing after racist comments

The Connell High official in charge at a Saturday night basketball game has apologized to the Zillah players, coaches and community for what he called “racist actions” at the game.

The apology came before sanctions were imposed Wednesday on the school’s teams and fans.

“I know that what happened has caused an immense amount of pain to you as a player, coach, fan, family member and community member, and I am deeply sorry,” said Stephen Pyeatt, Connell High’s athletic director.

“You did not deserve this in any way, and no one should ever have to be subjected to what happened,” he said in the formal apology. “I am sorry.”

The North Franklin School District is investigating allegations of racist gestures and calls during the Connell High girls’ game against Zillah High School.

Video shot during the game and posted on Facebook shows two Zillah High players, who are sisters, being called “monkey” in shouts from the bleachers during free throw attempts.

“Don’t think about it monkey,” was one of the comments shouted as one of the teens was at the free throw line.

The video also shows a person in the stands making monkey sounds and arm gestures.

The South Central Athletic Conference voted Wednesday to ban Connell’s basketball teams from competing in the league’s postseason games, reported the Yakima Herald-Republic.

In addition, no Connell fans will be allowed to attend sports competitions for the remainder of the school year.

Neither the North Franklin School District nor the athletic conference could be reached by the Herald about the incident.

Doug Burge, the Zillah School District superintendent, said in a statement that the district takes the allegations seriously and is committed to aiding in the investigation.

“We value diversity and strive to create schools and environments that are both physically safe and emotionally nurturing for our students,” he said.

The district’s priority is to support the Zillah students and families of those involved and ensure that its schools are places were students know they are valued, respected and accepted, Burge said.

Counseling and school administrative staff are available to help students impacted by the events at the game.

Burge said the district continues to be impressed by the support shown by the Zillah community to students and staff following the game and its willingness to embrace diversity and express compassion.

Connell High School students have been banned from attending games as fans until further notice.

People posting on the Connell High School Facebook page were questioning why the issue was not addressed during the game, either by school staff or the referees.

At one point Zillah coach Brandie Valadez can be heard on a video posted on Facebook saying, “This is very racist. That is racist.”

“We take these allegations seriously and, while we are unable to share disciplinary details due to privacy laws, we will assure appropriate consequences are administered,” said Jim Jacobs, superintendent of the North Franklin School District, in a statement Monday evening.

He said earlier this week that the investigation includes reviewing game film and other video and interviewing students.

The Washington Interscholastic Activities Association also posted a statement Wednesday about the incident on its Facebook page.

“There is no place for racist actions or words at WIAA events,” it said. “We implore our member schools to create a safe and healthy environment where all students can enjoy the benefits of participation.”

“While we encourage our students to compete and our fans to cheer with great passion, it is essential that both competitors and spectators respect each other,” said the association.

“Recent incidents involving hateful comments and remarks at multiple school contests are completely unacceptable and will not be tolerated.”

This story was originally published May 26, 2021 at 2:31 PM.