Ipswich High School’s lacrosse team was forced to forfeit their state semifinal game after a controversy surrounding a photo of players with what appeared to be cigars. However, a parent of one of the players, John Gianakakis, claimed that the cigars were actually fake and had been made by him for a post-graduation tradition.

Controversy Surrounding the Photo

The photo in question showed some of the lacrosse players with what appeared to be cigars, which is against state rules for student athletes. The Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association (MIAA) handbook states that student athletes may not use or possess any tobacco products during their season.

Despite Gianakakis’ claim that the cigars were fake, the players were still suspended, and the team had to forfeit their state semifinal game. The school district has not publicly explained why it rejected Gianakakis’ claim.

Parental Rights and School Policies

The incident has raised questions about parental rights and school policies. Gianakakis expressed his disappointment and frustration with the situation, stating that it was the saddest and most emotional thing he had ever been through.

The forfeit of the game means that Cohasset High School will now face Nantucket High School in the MIAA Division 4 Boys Lacrosse State Championship.

This incident comes after parents in Ipswich had called for changes to high school sports safety rules following a varsity lacrosse scrimmage that left one player seriously injured. The parents had pointed out a gap in MIAA medical requirements, which do not require certified athletic trainers at all sporting events.

Original reporting: NBC10 Boston — read the source article.