Although hazing has often been thought to exist primarily in fraternities and sororities, a 1999 study by Alfred University and the NCAA found that approximately 80% of college athletes had been subjected to some form of hazing. Half were required to participate in drinking contests or alcohol related initiations while two thirds were subjected to humiliating hazing. Additionally, much of the reported hazing in high schools occurs during initiations related to athletic teams with many problems arising during pre-season sports camps. Some of the recent high profile hazing incidents in the news have involved brutal initiations in high school sports. Hazing also occurs among professional sports teams as documented in numerous news media accounts.

Despite widespread reports of hazing in sport, many coaches and athletic directors did not identify hazing as a problem on their teams (according to the Alfred/NCAA study). However, many educational institutions and associations are seriously addressing the problem of hazing and athletes. Johnson and Holman’s (2004) edited collection provides insightful perspectives about sports initiations and hazing. Several chapters address positive efforts being made by coaches and athletics administrators to curb harmful hazing. The Report of the President’s Committee on the Prevention of Hazing in Intercollegiate Sports at The University of Vermont is another informative resource about hazing and college sports. The NCAA and the National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics (NACDA) are making hazing a priority issue for their associations.

Much education is still needed to eliminate harmful hazing in athletics. Something on which most educators, coaches and advocates agree is the best way to end hazing is to begin by sending a clear anti-hazing message. Then, implement a strong anti-hazing policy, communicate it clearly, and enforce it when incidents occur.

Hank Nuwer
Why NCAA Faculty Reps Should Loudly Ban Hazing: A Friendly Nudge
Opinion Guest Column
Reprinted with Permission of author from Oct. 20 NCAA News

Hazed and Confused-Changing the Varsity Initiation Culture
A video resource on hazing and sports