The University of Bath has launched an investigation following allegations that members of its rugby club planned to intentionally spike the drinks of female students at a pub.
In a statement released Tuesday, the university acknowledged "frightening" claims circulating on social media, suggesting that "members of a university sports club planned to spike female students during Freshers' Week." The investigation was prompted by screenshots of a WhatsApp message, reportedly from an anonymous female student, alleging she overheard "rugby guys" discussing spiking her and her friends at a local pub. The message read: "Rugby guys in the Royal Oak were talking about spiking me, my mates and other girls. They are still on the prowl. Take care of each other."
Spiking, defined as adding alcohol or drugs to a person's drink without their knowledge or consent, is illegal and can result in a prison sentence of up to 10 years. The University of Bath Rugby Club has denied any involvement, stating it "did not organise, promote, or attempt to arrange any activity of this nature."
The university emphasized that it takes such allegations "extremely seriously" and has initiated an independent investigation to "establish the facts." If wrongdoing is discovered, the university stated that "robust" disciplinary measures would be enforced. A broader review into the "culture" of sports clubs at the university is also planned.
Acknowledging the fear these allegations have caused among students, particularly women concerned about their safety, the university reported that it has "stepped up" security at local nightclubs and venues over the past weekend. The university also noted reports of abuse directed at sports club members following the accusations, stressing the importance of respecting student well-being and safety during the investigation process.
In a joint statement with the University of Bath Students' Union (SU), the rugby club reiterated its awareness of the concerns within the student community. The club stated it "does not condone, encourage, or accept targeting, coercion, harassment, intimidation, or any behaviour that puts others at risk." The statement also affirmed the club's commitment to fostering a culture of respect, accountability, and inclusion, working with the SU and the university to ensure members uphold these values.
Freshers' Week, a period from September 21 to September 27, is designed for new students to socialize and engage with university offerings. This controversy is not the first instance of scrutiny for the Bath University rugby program. In 2020, the men's rugby union team was banned from the annual University of Bath Varsity competition following multiple complaints related to excessive alcohol consumption, alleged sexual misconduct, and violent behavior. Between October 2018 and October 2019, the university reportedly took disciplinary action in over 30 cases involving members of the rugby team for various behavioral issues, including claims of sexual misconduct and violence, and a specific incident where a woman alleged three club members followed her into a women's restroom. The "sustained pattern of behaviour" led to the team's ban from Varsity 2020 and a mandate for all members to attend compulsory bystander training.
The University of Bath SU, University of Bath Rugby Club, and Avon and Somerset Police have been contacted for comment.