Claims Of Football Bounties Involving Kid Players In The OC - Los Angeles Local News, Weather, and Traffic

It's another bounty scandal in football. Players are allegedly being paid to make big hits and knock opponents out of games. This story involves 10 and 11-year-old students on the Tustin Pop Warner Red Cobras, which is an elite pee wee football team. The payouts range from $20 for any kind of injury to $50 for injuring a player enough to take them out of the game.

Six players and an assistant coach on the Tustin Red Cobras told their story to reporters at The OC Register who spent a year following up on these allegations.

Statement from OEC Corporate Commissioner:

And this is a statement from Tustin Pop Warner:

This is in response to the OC Register article of yesterday, Sunday September 23, 2012, alleging a ‘Bounty Program' on last year's Jr. Pee Wee Red Cobras, as reported by a suspended coach.  

The subject matter is serious and was thoroughly investigated by the Orange Empire Conference (OEC) who found there was no proof of the allegations.  

Most importantly, everyone at Tustin Pop Warner Football and Cheer continues to be focused on ensuring the safety and well-being of all players and cheerleaders, while providing a football and cheer experience that is second to none.

Sincerely,

Tustin Pop Warner Football and Cheer

Board of Directors