Emotions are running high around the Bronco boys hockey program after a party over the weekend left 11 members of the team suspended for Tuesday’s game at Lake of the Woods.
A letter to the editor from head coach Mike Bolstad was submitted Tuesday to The Journal, and it includes an apology to former Broncos, future Broncos and to everyone inbetween who supports the hockey program.
“I want all of you to know that the Bronco boys hockey team sincerely apologizes for the recent Minnesota State High School League rules that 11 of our players and support staff had broken on the weekend of Dec. 10,” the letter states.
When speaking with The Journal, Bolstad could only confirm that “there are players not playing tonight.”
The length of each suspension is unknown, but the penalties are clearly stated in the MSHSL bylaws. Each athlete also signs an eligibility form prior to each athletic season.
A. First Violation Penalty
The student shall lose eligibility for the next two consecutive interscholastic contests or two weeks, 14 calendar days, of a season in which the student is a participant, whichever is greater.
B. Second Violation Penalty
The student shall lose eligibility for the next six consecutive interscholastic contests or three weeks, 21 calendar days, whichever is greater, in which the student is a participant.
C. Third or Subsequent Violation Penalty
The student shall lose eligibility for the next 12 consecutive interscholastic contests or four weeks, 28 calendar days, whichever is greater, in which the student is a participant.
Falls High School Superindendent Jeff Peura refused to confirm or deny the allegations, saying privacy issues prevent any school administrator from speaking about eligibility issues.
“I’m sorry I couldn’t give you more than that,” Peura said.
The Minnesota State High School League confirmed it was a local matter.
“Eligibility determinations are determined by the school,” said Craig Perry, an associate director at the MSHSL. Perry noted school administrators can only discuss eligibility with parents.
Athletic/activities Director Don Rolando was contacted on the subject, but he is on paternity leave and deferred all questions to principal Tim Everson, who is in charge of the investigation, Rolando said.
Everson didn’t return messages to The Journal.
The Journal staff is unaware of any law enforcement involved in this matter, but numerous confidential sources said a party — hosted by one of the 11 suspended Broncos — got out-of-hand over the weekend and had to be put to an end by adults. These adults, in conjunction with numerous parents of the athletes who attended the party, informed the school of the problem.
The Journal was unable to get confirmation on all 11 suspended Broncos.
• To read Bolstad’s entire letter to the editor, see Letter to the Editor section
