October 30, 2026
THOMASVILLE, N.C. — A North Carolina high school has canceled the remainder of its varsity boys soccer season after a video circulated online showing students reacting to a racist statement aboard a team bus.
East Davidson High School announced Wednesday, October 28, that the season would end immediately following an investigation into the recording, which had spread across social media over the weekend.
In the video, a person calls on those aboard the bus to make noise if they hate Black people, using a racial slur. Several people respond with loud sounds and cheering. School officials have not publicly identified the students involved.
School district responds
In a statement, East Davidson High School called the behavior unacceptable and said ending the season reflected its commitment to student conduct and accountability. Davidson County Schools Superintendent Gregg Slate also condemned the behavior, saying consequences would be handled under district policies while protecting student privacy.
East Davidson Principal Jennifer Woodrum said the school would continue holding students accountable and reinforcing expectations of responsible behavior.
The Davidson County branch of the NAACP also addressed the incident. Its president, the Rev. Alan Suber, said the organization was saddened by what occurred and the effect on students and families. The organization thanked district administrators for their response.
Video of incident
Viewer discretion advised: The following video circulated on social media and contains a racial slur. VOTP News STL did not record the footage.
Video: Circulated on social media. Original recording credit has not been independently established.
Season ends ahead of playoffs
The school’s varsity boys soccer team finished with a 17-4 record, including a forfeited game Monday, October 26. The North Carolina Class 3A state playoffs were scheduled to begin November 2, but East Davidson will not participate.
The district has not publicly detailed any additional individual disciplinary measures. The cancellation has prompted discussion about racism, student conduct and accountability in school athletics.
Sources: WBTV, WXII 12 News and WGHP.
