The swim team at Gettysburg College is reeling after a reported incident where a student member allegedly used a box cutter to scratch a racial slur onto another student swimmer.
On September 18, Gettysburg College confirmed that it was looking into the matter. Following the incident, two swimmers from the team have been suspended.
In a statement released on the Gettysburg College Athletics website, the swim team expressed the difficulties they have faced in recent days, emphasizing that the event does not reflect the team or its activities. The college’s investigation concluded that the incident was not related to hazing, nor indicative of a toxic team culture.
The swim team reiterated the college’s sentiments by stating, “racism has no home here.”
They further addressed the media coverage surrounding the incident, acknowledging the emotional toll it has taken on the campus community. The team underscored that the culture within the swim team is not to blame for the actions of the individual involved.
The team’s message included gratitude for the college administration’s response and support during this challenging time. They expressed a commitment to returning to the pool with renewed determination and pride in representing Gettysburg College, aiming to emerge as a more united team.