Police Called to Florida Youth Soccer Game Amid Dispute Over 3-Year-Old Player
Parents of a highly skilled 3-year-old were reportedly upset about his playing time, leading to a confrontation that required police intervention.
Winter Park, Florida – Police were called to a youth soccer game on Saturday morning following a disturbance involving the parents of a 3-year-old player competing in a league designed for 5-year-olds. The incident occurred at a multi-sport i9 Sports league event at Martin Luther King Jr. Park.
Thomas Hayes, the league director, contacted the Winter Park Police Department at approximately 9:50 a.m., reporting a disruptive parent. "There is a parent here that’s really, really disruptive," Hayes told the 911 operator. "Like following me around, calling me names in front of the whole bunch of people that are here. I want to be done."
Officers arrived on the scene at 10 a.m. and were informed by Hayes that parents were upset about the amount of playing time their 3-year-old child was receiving. According to the event report, the parents expressed dissatisfaction that their child was being criticized for playing well and was being removed from the game.
The parents were informed that their child would no longer be permitted to play in the league due to their behavior. Hayes indicated that a refund would be provided at a later time, characterizing it as a civil matter. The parents stated to officers that the game was over and they were leaving.
A video of the incident circulated on social media, with the person recording asserting that police were called on the 3-year-old for being "too good" at soccer. The recording also captured one of the parents questioning the situation, stating, "They have an issue with a 3-year-old. They’re mad at the 3-year-old because me and him haven’t done nothing. We stand on the other side."
The Winter Park Police Department issued a news release on Monday, stating that the incident was considered a "civil matter" and not criminal. No arrests were made, and authorities confirmed that no one was trespassed or forcibly removed from the park.
Officers cleared the call by 10:30 a.m., and the family departed the field, having complied with the league's directive.