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A boys high school soccer game turned ugly on Oct. 27 during a 2-1 win by Steubenville over New Philadelphia, according to stories by, TMZ, the Times-Reporter and New York Post.
TMZ reported that an official was taken to the hospital and treated for broken ribs and a collapsed lung, but was "doing better," after being hit by a Steubenville player.
With about 5:40 remaining in the game, Steubenville took a corner kick that resulted in a collision, leaving a Steubenville player on the ground and drawing a reaction from the crowd.
Moments later, a Steubenville player collided with New Philadelphia's goalkeeper, resulting in a foul. As the referee walked toward midfield, a Steubenville player ran toward the official and knocked him to the ground.
According to the story and a video on X.com, a Steubenville player was given a red card after he looked like he said something to an official.
OHSAA spokesperson Tim Stried told 1450-AM WJER that the high school governing body is waiting to hear from the school about additional action before ruling on the player.
"The OHSAA is aware of the incident and has been in communication with the school," Stried said. "The OHSAA is waiting for a response from the school as to the discipline that the school will take against the student-athlete, which will determine if the OHSAA will issue additional penalties.
"The school has indicated that punishment will be significant, which the OHSAA agrees with. Physical violence against an official is among the most serious offenses that a coach, player or fan can commit and the OHSAA will pursue this to the fullest extent possible."
Jacob Shondel of the Times-Reporter said that Steubenville City Schools confirmed disciplinary action has been taken, but declined to specify due to student privacy laws.
"The Steubenville City Schools is aware of the incident involving a student and a game official following a recent athletic contest," Stried said in a statement to the Times-Reporter. "The District worked collaboratively with the Ohio High School Athletic Association (OHSAA) to review the matter and ensure it was addressed appropriately.
"Following the review, disciplinary action was imposed. Consistent with student privacy laws, the District cannot comment on the specific disciplinary measures taken. The District remains committed to maintaining high standards of sportsmanship, respect, and safety at all athletic events."
Contact Brad Bournival at bbournival@usatodayco.com and follow him on Twitter at @bbournival
This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: Soccer game turns ugly after referee hit by Steubenville player in OHSAA playoff game
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