Boston College Hazing Scandal Sidelines Swim, Dive Team Through Summer

NEWTON, MA — Boston College swimmers and divers will remain off the pool deck for at least another eight months after the college extended the suspension of the program following an investigation into hazing allegations.

The school said the suspension will now extend through August following a September incident that reportedly involved freshmen being pressured into binge drinking while wearing "vomit bags" around their necks at a September 2023 team party.

BC Athletic Director Blake James said the team was sent a letter on Jan. 4 notifying it of the extended suspension.

The season was suspended in the fall for the spring season with no meets, practices or organized team meetings and instruction allowed during the spring season after the investigation that the school said included interviews with student-athletes, coaches and staff.

"Given the hazing violations and recurring issues with the program and its culture in recent years, the university has decided to extend the suspension of the swimming and diving program until August 2024, including team practices and activities, competition, and all instruction with coaches," the letter stated. "In addition, the Athletics Department will require swimming and diving student-athletes to participate in a hazing education program determined by the university."

Members of the program went to court in October in an effort to force the reinstatement of the program but dropped the lawsuit after a judge denied their request to lift the suspension pending the outcome.

James said it is anticipated that the program will return to the pool for the 2024-25 academic year.

"My hope is that the program will learn from this experience and commit itself to ensuring appropriate behavior, meeting university expectations, and creating a positive team culture that will position the program for success in the future," he said in a statement through the school.