A heated rivalry match between two powerhouse North Jersey prep schools took an unexpected and disturbing turn on Saturday. A photographer was reportedly assaulted by a player from St. Benedict’s Prep in Jersey City.
The incident happened after a tied soccer game against St. Peter’s Prep. Now, internal investigations and concern from the state’s athletic association have followed.
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No police report was filed. Still, officials at both the school and the New Jersey Interscholastic Athletic Association (NJSIAA) say they’re working to address the situation with diligence and transparency.
The Altercation After the Game
Soccer fans expected fierce competition when St. Peter’s Prep and St. Benedict’s Prep met in this high-profile match. The intensity didn’t just stay on the pitch—tempers rose during a post-game fight between players.
Amid the chaos, an Advance Media photographer tried to capture the scene. One of St. Benedict’s star players allegedly grabbed the photographer’s throat—a shocking breach of sportsmanship and professionalism.
Photographer Chooses Not to Press Charges
Usually, incidents like this can turn into criminal matters. In this case, the photographer chose not to involve law enforcement.
That decision kept things within the school and athletic association’s hands. It leaves some wondering about player conduct and accountability in these high-pressure sports moments.
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Response from St. Benedict’s Prep
On Monday, St. Benedict’s released a formal statement. School spokesperson Larry Geraghty said they’re taking the allegation seriously, with an internal review already underway.
Eyewitness accounts, video footage, and detailed statements are all being evaluated. They want to create a clear picture of what actually happened.
NJSIAA Joins the Investigation
The New Jersey Interscholastic Athletic Association (NJSIAA) has stepped in too. They’re gathering reports from everyone involved.
NJSIAA spokesperson Mike Cherenson said the organization treats the matter seriously. He also mentioned they’ll release more details once they confirm the facts.
Sportsmanship and Lessons for Young Athletes
All this brings up important questions about sportsmanship and emotional control. How are schools preparing students for intense competitive situations?
High school sports should teach young athletes about teamwork, respect, and discipline. No one expects a match to end in a physical altercation.
Media’s Role in School Sports
Photographers and reporters at these events play a crucial role. They don’t just document scores—they capture stories, rivalries, and the real drama that unfolds.
Respect for media professionals is part of what keeps school sports in the public eye. It’s a small thing, but it matters more than people realize.
The Local Impact in Jersey City
This clash happened right here in Jersey City. It’s not just a story about sports conduct—it’s something our own community is feeling.
After news like this, locals and visitors might look at the area’s sports culture a little differently. If you’re planning a visit, there are plenty of Jersey City hotels and options for where to stay in Jersey City that keep you close to local games and recreational facilities.
Exploring the City Beyond the Soccer Field
Sure, that incident was a bummer, but Jersey City still packs a punch when it comes to things to do in Jersey City. You can stroll along the waterfront or check out the art scene in different city districts.
Visitors find getting to Jersey City pretty straightforward, thanks to solid public transit and how close it is to New York City. That kind of easy access lets folks catch sports events and still soak up everything else the city has to offer.
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Here is the source article for this story: Assault On Photographer At Jersey City Soccer Game Being Investigated, State Says