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Northbridge High football players at center of reported hazing incident

NORTHBRIDGE, Mass. (MyFoxBoston.com) -- Police are investigating a reported hazing incident involving members of the Northbridge High School football team.

Investigators say the alleged incident took place on Aug. 19 at football practice. An unidentified freshman claims he lost a "sled pad" race inside the locker room to another freshman.

The student claims after the losing the race, he was pressured to take a drink from a gallon jug of water with urine in it. He told investigators he took a sip from the jug and spit it out.

Principal Michael Gauthier contacted police on Aug. 21 to report the incident. He said, however, the freshman did not know what was in the cup and another football player took the cup away before it was consumed.

The student has told police he does not wish to pursue criminal charges against the players involved. No criminal charges were filed as a result.

Authorities told FOX 25 the juniors were suspended from school and some football games.

The school released the following statement:

The Northbridge Public School District takes all incidents of hazing seriously, and follows strict protocols whenever an incident occurs.  We do a thorough investigation, and apply appropriate consequences that match the seriousness of the situation.  We also report the incident to the police as required by law.  The law prohibits us from releasing any names or details of the incident, or commenting on the consequences that were given to students.

 It is unfortunate that this hazing incident has occurred.  It does not reflect the true nature of the Northbridge Schools.  We stress respect and good sportsmanship in all our programs, and are proud of the maturity, responsibility, and sensitivity of our students.  We will continue to work with students to emphasize the prohibition on all forms of hazing and bullying, while administering suitable consequences to deter future incidents.