Brookings, South Dakota police are conducting an investigation into an alleged assault that occurred during a high school boys' soccer match. The incident, which gained viral attention online, involved Jaxson Bergman of Rapid City Central and Kyle Soost of Brookings.
Video footage from the game appears to show Bergman and Soost colliding while vying for the ball. Following the collision, Bergman allegedly shoved Soost to the ground and then proceeded to punch him multiple times in the head and kick him in the back of the head. The visual evidence has prompted a broad investigation by local authorities.
Brookings Police Chief Michael Drake stated that investigators plan to interview more than 100 witnesses and review multiple videos, beyond the one that circulated widely on social media. The game itself was delayed for 10 minutes following the incident, and Bergman received a red card.
Under the rules of the South Dakota High School Activities Association (SDHSAA), a player receiving a red card is automatically suspended for one game and required to complete a sportsmanship course. SDHSAA executive director Dan Swartos described the event as an "unacceptable scenario" and noted that while the association typically defers to school policies for disciplinary actions, they retain the authority to intervene in egregious cases.
Rapid City Central High School has acknowledged the incident, stating in a release that the school "expect[s] all students to demonstrate respect, sportsmanship, and appropriate behavior at all times, both on and off the field." The district indicated that "appropriate actions will be taken in accordance with RCAS policies and procedures," which could include suspension or expulsion for students found guilty of assault during school-related activities.
Brookings Superintendent Summer Schultz emphasized that student disciplinary matters are private but affirmed the district's commitment to supporting its students and learning from the experience. Schultz also highlighted that the incident has drawn national attention and involves young people, underscoring that such behavior is not acceptable in sports or any other context.