The Allderdice boys’ soccer team suffered a crushing defeat earlier this school year, not from another team, but from their very own PIAA organization. A technicality in the rules put in place months ago was finally implemented, resulting in the removal of the team from the WPIAL. This means they are no longer recognized in WPIAL tournaments, and they no longer have a record with the organization.
This move understandably sparked outrage amongst the players. In an interview with one distraught senior on the day of the decision, we learned more about the teams' reaction: “When I heard the news, I literally fell to my knees and started crying–it was literally the worst day of my life.” “It is so appalling to have this right stripped away from us, and this oppression takes the souls out of kids,” he exclaimed through tears. When asked if he intended to take any action in retaliation, he answered, “I called up the team right away, and we began planning…”
The next day, Allderdice teachers were dumbfounded to discover that not a single member of the boys' soccer team showed up to class. According to an insider source, the team organized an emergency meeting at ThyGuy’s house to plan their next steps. Their big surprise was unveiled at their next game against their rival team a few days later. A few of the Instagram posts made by team members caught the attention of local news sources who attended this game to cover the unrest unfolding in the soccer community. WPXI and other local Pittsburgh stations live-streamed the game while reporting on the crisis. During the game, the Allderdice boy soccer team was seen not wearing their usual uniform but instead homemade t-shirts with various slogans painted on them. Each teammate displayed a unique protest phrase: “Our Games, Our Choice,” “No WPIAL, No Peace,” “Soccer Lives Matter,” and “Let Us Play.” Throughout the halftime break, the players were spotted standing in the middle of the field, silently linking hands and kneeling in protest.
After the game, a few of the senior players gave comments to the press regarding their bold statements. “The WPIAL claims that this whole thing is because of some ‘technicality’ in the rules. But we all know the truth–racism. They are unfairly targeting and plotting against us because we are an inner-city public school!” He exclaimed to the reporter. “I swear we have at least one minority on our team!”
Much to the dismay of the players, their efforts were in vain as their protest, petitions, and t-shirts were not enough for the organization to backtrack the decision. Fortunately for them, Fox Chapel High School recently released a statement inviting all the members of the Allderdice soccer team to transfer and play for their school instead.
This story is based on true events.
