Bloomingdale police investigating youth football fight

Bloomingdale police say they’re investigating a fight that broke out among parents and players at a Sunday afternoon youth football league game.

Police were called to Circle Park in Bloomingdale about 3:50 p.m. Sept. 25 for reports of a fight. The Bloomingdale Bears were playing the Hanover Park Hurricanes, both members of the Bill George Youth Football League. Players on the teams are primarily in eighth grade, although some are also in seventh grade.

Witnesses told officers a dispute erupted during the final play of the game, Chief Frank Giammarese said.

“The Bloomingdale team was running out the clock, but the other team from Hanover Park did not know they were going to take a knee,” Giammarese said. “Some of the fans thought the Hanover Park people were a little aggressive and, at that point, players and fans came onto the field.”

Parents initially entered the field to separate the players, police reports said, but it ultimately escalated, and one man was struck.

Giammarese said the victim suffered a cut to the upper lip, but refused medical attention. No other injuries were reported.

No one was arrested, but police still are contacting witnesses; they encourage anyone who has video or information about the skirmish to contact the department at (630) 529-9868.

Last Friday, the Hurricanes’ website noted there was a mandatory parent meeting due to “an incident that occurred this past weekend.”

Bears coach Chris Helms confirmed the Hurricanes had a mandatory meeting and said the league is responsible for scheduling such events.

He declined to comment further, saying only league officials may talk to the media. Attempts to reach several league officials were unsuccessful.