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Woodstock apologizes for team's picture with Barbie on cross

After clinching the regional title, Woodstock High School's girls basketball team posed for a picture with a Barbie doll — their symbol of “girl power” — stuck over a crucifix at a Catholic school.

The smiling and laughing girls, still dressed in their basketball uniforms after the win Thursday night, pointed up at the cross hanging in Landers Pavilion at Marian Central Catholic High School, the Class 3A regionals host.

Woodstock school officials have apologized after the controversial image turned up on Facebook and Twitter. Athletic Director Glen Wilson says he has spoken “numerous times” with Coach Jen Nichols-Hogle, who is not in the picture, and with the team twice since Thursday's game.

“Our intent was certainly not to insult, or denigrate, Marian Central and its family,” Wilson said in an email. “We apologize that the act could solicit a perception of disrespect to faith, one's school or the community they represent. The team's symbol of “girl power” was used in an inappropriate manner. We are sincerely regretful for our actions and will use this as a learning experience for our program.”

The picture was snapped after Woodstock defeated Woodstock North 57-48. Earlier in the regionals tournament, the Blue Streaks beat Marian Central 55-41.

“Both administrations are trying to work through this incident,” said Marian Central Athletic Director Drew Potthoff, declining further comment.

Woodstock will advance to sectionals with a 6 p.m. tipoff Monday against Rosary High School.

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