Fred C. Beyer High School in Modesto, California, has canceled its football season for all teams—varsity, junior varsity, and freshman—following allegations of misconduct within the program. The decision came after school administrators reported the claims to authorities, leading to a police investigation and one student being cited for misdemeanor battery. The school's head football coach, Mike Young, has also been placed on administrative leave, though the reasons have not been disclosed.
Modesto police reviewed video evidence related to the allegations. The district stated that the allegations are “extremely serious and have no place in our schools or athletic programs.” Officials have not released many details regarding the specifics of the misconduct, the number of players involved, or potential victims.
School officials are conducting their own internal investigation to determine further disciplinary actions. Counseling and support services are available to student-athletes. The district also noted that students and employees receive annual harassment-prevention training.
This situation is unfolding against a backdrop of other recent incidents at Beyer High School, including multiple student fights and a threatening social media post. In one instance on October 16, five fights broke out on campus, leading to a school lockdown. Three students required medical evaluation, though no weapons were reportedly involved.
Separately, a threat targeting Beyer High School was posted on social media by a Riverbank High School student. Modesto police cited the student but found no evidence of a concrete plan to carry out an attack. Authorities have stated that the social media incident is not connected to the football program allegations.
The football program has struggled in recent years, with the varsity team recording only one win in nine games this season prior to the cancellation. The team had previously finished seasons without a win in 2018, 2021, and 2022.
The student cited for battery may face further consequences based on a review by probation officials and prosecutors. Police have stated they have received no new information in the case and that the coach has not been arrested or cited. Investigators are prepared to reopen the case if new evidence emerges. The district has not confirmed if its internal investigation is complete or if Coach Young will return next season.