Texas high school football players participate in viral trend

CLEVELAND, Texas – A viral video on social media shows the moments several Willis High School football players decided to abandon their sportsmanship after last Friday night's game, grab their belts and spank their opponents instead of shaking their hands shake.

“That’s just shady and there’s no point in doing that. It’s just very childish of them to do that,” Melanie Gonzalez told KHOU 11 News.

To make matters worse, Willis had just beaten Cleveland High School 77-0.

“This is ridiculous,” Mary Almaguer said.

The video is the latest in a viral trend called the BTA Challenge, in which athletes spank their opponents with a belt after a win.

But not everyone is laughing, especially not in Cleveland.

“I just don't understand it. I don’t understand that and I would be very upset if I was scrolling on my phone and saw my son getting hit with the belt,” Almaguer said.

Cleveland ISD didn't think it was funny either. CISD released this statement:

“The district is aware of a video circulating on social media involving the Willis High School varsity football team and their inappropriate actions toward our varsity football team following last Friday night’s game. Please note that CISD resolved this situation earlier this week “Superintendent McCanless has personally spoken with the Willis ISD Superintendent and official complaints have been filed with UIL and DEC does not advocate unsportsmanlike conduct and will continue to take appropriate action .”

Willis ISD also released a statement:

“We are deeply disappointed by the unsportsmanlike conduct of some of our football players following last week’s game against Cleveland. This behavior does not reflect our district's values ​​and we are committed to ensuring that it does not happen again. We were there.” We communicated with the UIL and submitted our proposed disciplinary action for consideration. While we wait for their decision on any additional sanctions, the affected athletes are already facing consequences. They will be suspended for the first half of tomorrow's game and will have to do their mandatory work. and faced disciplinary action during football practice. We do not tolerate this behavior and are actively taking steps to prevent such incidents in the future. We would like to express our deepest regrets to the Cleveland ISD athletes, coaches, parents and community.”

For Almaguer, the mother of a Cleveland High School student, that punishment is simply not enough.

“I think more than just a suspension for half the game, maybe the rest of the season, some counseling,” Almaguer said.