Two West Michigan High Schools Involved In An Assault At Basketball Game
A basketball game between two West Michigan High Schools turned ugly and led to the Ottawa County Sheriff's Office being called.
On Tuesday night the Ottawa County Sherriff's Office was called out to the East Kentwood vs. Grand Haven Girls basketball game.
Details are still being collected, but here is what we know so far.
The Ottawa County Sheriff's office says an East Kentwood player and coach were ejected after a fight at the game. They said it was linked to an assault between a member of the East Kentwood High School and Grand Haven High School Girls' basketball teams.
The Ottawa County Sherriff's office had to work alongside the school staff to de-escalate the situation.
After things calmed down, the game was continued and deputies stuck around to make sure nothing else happened.
East Kentwood High School Athletic Department Released A Statement
This is a statement that was released after the incident by Blaine Brumels, who is the co-athletic director for East Kentwood High School.
East Kentwood High School’s Athletic Department is committed to high expectations for behavior of student-athletes and coaches both in and out of athletic competitions. Educational athletics are an extension of the classroom and serve as an opportunity for all aspects of growth and development for our student-athletes.
Grand Haven Area Public Schools Superintendent Released A Statement
Following last night’s incident at the Grand Haven High School girls’ basketball game, GHAPS Superintendent Scott Grimes extends his gratitude for the quick actions of the Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office, as well his pride in the GHAPS community.
“Our top priority is the safety and well-being of our students, especially our player who was injured,” says Grimes. “This unfortunate and frightening incident has no place in interscholastic athletics. We are proud of our team, coaches and athletic administration, who maintained their composure and helped deescalate the situation.”
Grimes also praises the Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office, who responded quickly to the call for assistance.
“The deputies calmed the scene and stayed until the parking lot was empty,” says Grimes. “Safety and security, whether during school or at afterschool events, is a collaborative effort between GHAPS and law enforcement – and we couldn’t have asked for better support.”
According to the Sheriff’s Office, the family of the Grand Haven player involved has declined to press charges. Any sanctions for the East Kentwood player or coach will be at the discretion of Kentwood Public Schools.
“We expect our athletes to hold themselves to the highest standards, especially in the heat of competition,” says Scott Robertson, Grand Haven High School athletic director. “Last night, our girls’ basketball team experienced very serious unsportsmanlike conduct. I’m proud of their sportsmanship and self-discipline.”
Grand Haven Area Public Schools is a district of distinction for students in preschool through 12th grade. With a goal of providing exceptional educational experiences, GHAPS is committed to success for all students and strives to provide exemplary programs and opportunities to meet their diverse needs.