Willis, Texas – A Texas high school football team is facing serious backlash after an incident that occurred during a postgame handshake line. Following their overwhelming victory against Cleveland High School, where they won 77-0 on September 27, Willis High School players involved themselves in a controversial act that has recently gone viral on social media.
During the traditional handshake line, players from Willis High School were seen holding belts and attempting to whip their Cleveland opponents as part of the “BTA challenge,” which stands for “belt to ass.” The event was recorded and shared online, showing one Cleveland player dodging the belt swings. Following the handshake, Willis players celebrated by aggressively wielding belts in front of them.
Many in the community, including parents of Cleveland players, expressed their outrage over the incident. “I just don’t get it. I’d be very pissed off if I’m scrolling on my phone, and I see my son getting hit with the belt,” said one parent. The Willis Independent School District responded swiftly, suspending several players and considering further disciplinary measures. “We are deeply disappointed by the unsportsmanlike conduct displayed by some of our football players,” the district stated. They assured the public that they were communicating with the University Interscholastic League regarding proposed actions.
The district has confirmed that the involved players face a suspension for the first half of their next game, along with required community service and disciplinary actions during practices. “This behavior does not reflect the values of our district,” they added.
Additionally, Cleveland Independent School District condemned Willis’s actions as “inappropriate” and filed official complaints over the incident. Parents of Cleveland players called the act childish and expressed their frustration, with some suggesting that a half-game suspension was insufficient. “Maybe the rest of the season, some counseling,” one mother commented.
This incident has sparked a significant discussion about sportsmanship and the responsibilities of young athletes as representatives of their schools and communities.
