Updated: Statement on Viera High Football Team Investigation

UPDATE: The decision has been made to allow the Viera High varsity and junior varsity football teams to return to competition this week. Several factors went into today’s decision, including players and parents attending a meeting shortly after the hazing incident was discovered, players and coaches taking part in an anti-hazing educational program, the players remaining engaged during two late-week practices and progress in the hazing investigation. The school district will continue to monitor the team’s activities moving forward to ensure the student-athletes meet expectations.

Posted 8.28.23

UPDATE: This message was sent to Viera High football families. "With the completion of the Anti-Hazing training, you have completed the first step to return to full operation of the football program. You are authorized to have practice and team activities on Wednesday.  We have not made a decision regarding Friday’s Varsity game or any other games at this point.  Use this opportunity to come together as a team and treat all members of the entire program with respect.”

Posted 8.23.23

Viera, FL --- This statement from BPS Superintendent Dr. Mark Rendell outlines the steps the school district is taking in response to our investigation into a hazing incident with the Viera High School football team where several players have been suspended.

Hazing, bullying, and intimidation have no place in Brevard Public Schools. We have spent the past several days investigating the hazing incident involving members of the Viera High football team. Today, we have made the decision to suspend all Viera High football team activities (varsity and junior varsity) until further notice and we have relieved the varsity head coach of his duties until further notice. In an effort to educate the team to the seriousness of this incident, all Viera High football players will he required to take part in an anti-hazing educational program before there is a possibility that the football program could be reinstated. We will also host a parent-player team meeting to begin the process of improving team culture and raising expectations. Per BPS procedure, the players suspended for their actions will not be permitted to attend the meeting. I am confident a decision on the future of this year’s football season and the suspended players will be made soon. With that said, it is important to remember that this investigation is not over; district security, law enforcement, and the school district are still collecting information. Again, hazing has no place in Brevard Public Schools, and we must always act in the best interest and safety of our students.

Posted 8.20.23