Watch CBS News

Crowd Allegedly Yells Racial Slur After Youth Players Take Knee, League Responds

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) - A suburban Pittsburgh youth football game reportedly grew tense after players took a knee in protest, but officials say they are unable to support the claims.

Woodland Hills head coach Marcus Burkley posted to Facebook saying his team was subjected to racial slurs this past weekend during a game against Bethel Park.

San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick has been criticized for his similar form of protest.

slur
Photo: Marcus Burkley

He claims the racial slurs were coming from the Bethel Park fans and that the concession workers refused to sell them any food.

Join The Conversation On The KDKA Facebook Page
Stay Up To Date, Follow KDKA On Twitter

The Bethel Park Junior Football Board responded to the allegations saying, in part:

"We take this matter very seriously. Our response was delayed due to extensive research, direct interviews, information gathering, and video reviews. BPJF has interviewed players, coaches, parents, stick holders, and fans. Not one individual we spoke with observed, witnessed, or can corroborate Woodland Hills' accusations of racial slurs or discrimination."

As for concessions, the board tells KDKA that the concessions are managed through an outside vendor, and they were "unavailable to provide services that evening."

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.