Faribault Superintendent Endorses MSHSL Decision

The Minnesota State High School League Board of Directors met Monday morning and announced suspensions for the head coaches of the five teams involved in the protest of Faribault's dance team state title in February.

Faribault Superintendent Todd Sesker told KDHL the MSHSL decision should finally end what was a nightmare for the Emeralds dance team. The head coaches of Chaska, Eastview, Eden Prairie, Wayzata and Lakeville South are suspended for one year. They also must participate in "Why We Play" training before being reinstated. "Why We Play" is part of the High School League's coaches education program.

Sesker was particularly happy with the second announcement made by the MSHSL. All along, the Faribault superintendent voiced his displeasure with the fact the members of the second- and third-place teams were denied their medals. The League Board of Directors decided to allow the team members of Wayzata and Eastview to receive their individual medals. However, no team trophies will be awarded.

Sesker said he was very proud of the entire Faribault school community. He singled out Activities Director Ken Hubert for his leadership in handling the matter and the students of FSHS.

The five teams held hands and stood away from the Faribault Emeralds team during the awards ceremony in protest of Faribault's state high kick title. The team's said they believed Faribault's routine wasn't original enough. After section competition, a complaint was filed with the High School League about the Emeralds' routine. The High School League conducted an investigation and cleared Faribault of any wrongdoing. The MSHSL sent a email to all the head coaches of the teams participating at state informing them of their decision.

All the schools had announced some punishment in connection with their dance team behavior. Eden Prairie's entire staff elected to step down, saying it wasn't related to what happened at state. Two-meet suspensions were handed out to Wayzata, Eastview and Chaska coaches by their schools. In addition to the coaches, Lakeville South's activities director was given a letter of reprimand.

Sesker noted there are still people who believe the protest was a freedom of speech issue. He says, "adults should never put students in that situation."