UPDATE: A shocking postgame brawl erupted Saturday night at a high school soccer match in Jersey City, where a photojournalist claims that star forward Amadou Hann of St. Benedict’s Prep grabbed him by the throat during the chaos. The incident, which was captured on video, followed a heated game against St. Peter’s Prep.
The altercation began after the handshake line, with Hann charging toward the opposing team, igniting a chaotic scene. Video footage shows players from both teams engaging in aggressive interactions as coaches and bystanders rushed to intervene. At least one punch was thrown, escalating the turmoil.
Witnesses reported that Hann confronted photojournalist Tom Horak, demanding he delete photos of the brawl before allegedly grabbing him by the throat. Although the video does not capture this specific moment, it shows Hann running off-screen, likely during the confrontation. Horak sustained minor abrasions on his neck but declined medical assistance at the scene and chose not to file charges.
“This was a scary moment,” Horak stated. “He charged at me and grabbed my throat. My immediate thought was to get out and try to calm the situation down.”
Authorities have not been involved, and no police report has been filed. However, St. Benedict’s Prep has launched an internal investigation. Spokesperson Larry Geraghty emphasized, “We take this matter extremely seriously and are treating it with utmost priority.” The school is reviewing eyewitness accounts and video evidence to ensure transparency and accountability.
The New Jersey Interscholastic Athletic Association, represented by spokesperson Mike Cherenson, acknowledged the incident and is also gathering information. “We take these matters very seriously,” Cherenson remarked.
The brawl has drawn significant attention, with Rich Hansen, athletic director at St. Peter’s Prep, dismissing the violence as “high school nonsense.”
As investigations continue, both schools are under pressure to address the implications of this incident, highlighting the urgent need for sportsmanship and respect in high school athletics. The community is left to ponder the consequences of such behavior on and off the field.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as more details emerge.
