Two South Otago High School pupils have been stood down for two weeks following a hearing in Dunedin on Wednesday night.
The hearing related to incidents which occurred in two games played in Balclutha on May 27.
The South Otago High School First XV played St Kevin’s College First XV in an Otago premier schools match, and a colts match took place between sides from the schools, also in Balclutha.
It was alleged inappropriate comments were made by South Otago High School players in the two games. It is believed there were racial overtones to the comments.
After the hearing on Wednesday night in Dunedin, each player was given a three-week ban which was reduced to two weeks due to their good records.
South Otago High School teacher in charge of rugby Jason Palmer said it was disappointing the incident occurred and it was not a good look.
The school and teams had taken the matter seriously, he said. He felt the punishment was about right. The team would be reminded of the standards the school expected of it and comments made were no indication of the values in the teams or the school, Palmer said.
St Kevin’s College coach Robbie Breen said the school was satisfied with the punishment handed down to the two players.
There was no place for the comments in the game.The Otago Rugby Football Union declined to comment on the incidents or hearings yesterday.