Montgomery, Bonita Vista Soccer Seasons Ruled Over

The soccer teams from Montgomery and Bonita Vista high schools have had their remaining games and practices this season canceled because of a fight that broke out after a game between the two teams last week, according to an official from the Sweetwater Union High School District.

Anthony Trujillo, district superintendent, notified both schools Tuesday that all games and practices remaining in the final 1 1/2 weeks of the season have been suspended. Both schools also will be ineligible for postseason play.

“High school athletics should be fun,” said Mary Anne Stro, a district spokeswoman. “We will not tolerate these kinds of situations.”

The fight broke out after Bonita Vista defeated Montgomery, 1-0, Thursday in a key Metro-Mesa League game.

As the two teams left the field, several players exchanged words, then began pushing and shoving. Soon spectators from both schools poured onto the field and became involved in the fight, which involved approximately 100 players and spectators, said Montgomery Coach Manuel Hermosillo.

Hermosillo said he plans to meet with parents today to discuss what action can be taken to reverse the district’s decision.

“I think it might be a little too severe for the kids,” Hermosillo said. “It was a hard-fought game. It is part of the game. In any sport there are times when there are some altercations.”

Bonita Vista Coach Jerry Hombs said he and four parents from Bonita Vista hope to meet with Trujillo today to discuss the punishment.

Bonita Vista (12-3-1 overall and 8-1 in league play), ranked third in the county this week in the 3-A division coaches’ poll, was leading the Metro-Mesa League with three games remaining. Montgomery (15-3-1, 8-1-1), ranked fourth, was a point behind in the league with four games remaining.