Franklin, Kenosha Bradford football game played without fans
FRANKLIN, Wis. - Franklin High School barred spectators from attending Friday night's varsity football playoff game against Kenosha's Bradford High School.
In a statement issued around 5:30 p.m., Franklin High School said the decision was made "due to an ongoing investigation involving a player from Kenosha Bradford." However, Bradford High School told FOX6 News that no student is under investigation.
Franklin High School's statement went on to say it made the decision "out of an abundance of caution." FOX6 News found a heavy police presence at the field during the game – officers seen at every entrance. Only players, coaches and other approved school personnel were allowed.
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FOX6 News followed up with Franklin school leaders but did not immediately hear back. Saturday, though, Franklin High School said in a new Facebook post that "there was never a Bradford football player under investigation" and "misinformation damages the experience for players and for both communities."
FOX6 also followed up with Kenosha Unified School District, but the district referred FOX6 back to Franklin.
The game, which Franklin won, was live-streamed on the Saber Roar YouTube channel. After a weekend of confusion and a push for clarity, Franklin players said Monday they are looking to keep the season going.
"Our coach just sat us down right when we were warming up. He brought everyone outside and told us there weren’t going to be fans," said Franklin player Sebastian Luevano.
"Our coaches just pulled the defense outside during our offense walk through. Just took us in a knee and said there was situation at Bradford, and we cannot have fans at the game," Franklin player Bennett Bloedel added. "Some students were upset. I know my parents were upset they couldn’t see a Round 1 playoff game, but it is what it is.
The Franklin Sabres play again Friday.
Editor's note: The video above aired on FOX6 News at 10 Friday night. It includes the information that school officials provided at that time.