Santa Margarita, California – A troubling report has emerged regarding the football program at Santa Margarita Catholic High School, where current and former players have allegedly experienced sexual assault by their teammates. This news follows an investigative piece that was published earlier this week and highlights a grim incident that reportedly took place on September 24.
According to details gathered from multiple interviews and legal documents, a 15-year-old sophomore player encountered a harrowing experience when trying to access the team’s locker room. As he entered, he was immediately surrounded by a group of 15 to 18 varsity players who had allegedly been waiting for him. With the lights turned off, the scene quickly escalated into violence, as two players reportedly overwhelmed the sophomore, slamming him into a locker and injuring his shoulder.
The report describes a shocking sequence where the young athlete was held down by six to eight teammates, who took turns during a brief but traumatic ordeal, allegedly subjecting him to inappropriate touching. Eyewitness accounts and medical evidence detail the chaotic scene, where players influenced the environment to drown out the sophomore’s cries.
Furthermore, it was reported that after the incident, the young player was discouraged from seeking help, with comments from teammates implying that such behavior was expected in football. In fact, the school’s principal indicated that “at least 8” other players experienced similar assaults.
In response to these allegations, the Diocese of Orange and the school’s administration emphasize their commitment to a thorough investigation. They have cooperated fully with the local sheriff’s department, which conducted an initial investigation and found no evidence of sexual assault. Following this, the school has commissioned an independent review to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the situation.
The Santa Margarita Eagles currently stand at a 3-6 record for the season under interim head coach Steve Fifita, who stepped up after the previous coach was placed on administrative leave. With their next game scheduled against Servite, a highly competitive match is anticipated, but the unfolding situation casts a shadow over the team’s focus and morale.
With the complexities of this case developing, the community of Santa Margarita remains hopeful for justice and healing as these serious allegations are addressed in a transparent manner.
