Fight, hazing in Long Beach Poly baseball locker room being investigated by school district (video)

A fight between two Long Beach Poly baseball players was orchestrated in a locker room in what appears to be an act of hazing

The Long Beach Unified School District issued a statement to Long Beach Poly High baseball families Monday evening stating the district is currently investigating an orchestrated fight between two baseball players in a locker room.

"The safety and well-being of students and staff remains our top priority. Please be advised that we are investigating a video circulating on social media showcasing two of our student athletes," the district's letter reads. "While student matters are confidential, Long Beach Unified takes all safety concerns seriously and emphasizes our commitment to fostering a safe, secure, and nurturing learning environment for all."

The full video of the scene was obtained by SBLive.

NOTE: The video's audio was altered in three total parts: each time a student-athlete's full name was announced (twice) and to censor profanity (once).

In the video, the two male student-athletes — both in Long Beach Poly baseball attire — are announced by a teammate prior to a fight that seems to be agreed upon. Teammates surrounded the fight with their cameras out recording and cheering.

It appears the fight is a slap box, which means punches cannot be made with a closed fist.

The fight lasts roughly 30 seconds before its broken up. After the fight, the two student-athletes exchange a hug. Despite smiling, one student-athlete's lip is clearly bloodied.

The compliance of all parties involved appears to make the fight an act of hazing; which by definition includes 'humiliating and sometimes dangerous initiation rituals'.  In 2021, the Mater Dei football program came under scrutiny for a similar locker room scene between two teammates that led to a lawsuit that was later dismissed. 

The school district's statement continues to say:

"This incident is an opportunity to talk to your child about appropriate conduct and to remind them that their actions and words have consequences. We encourage everyone to continue following the district’s message: If you see something, say something. Thank you for your continued partnership in helping to keep our school community safe.”