Police Respond to Dispute Between Parents and Youth Soccer League in Winter Park

Winter Park police were dispatched to a youth soccer match after league officials reported a disturbance involving a family and their 3-year-old player. Body-camera footage released by the department shows league staff requesting that the family be asked to leave the field, citing the child’s alleged pushing of other players. The league representative told the child and parents that pushing was prohibited and expressed a desire for them to leave immediately.

Police noted that because the games were held in a public park, the family could not be forced to vacate, but officers offered to meet with them to discuss the incident. The mother, who was live-streaming the encounter, said the family was confused about the removal and planned to leave after the game, while also indicating an intention to seek a refund or legal action.

The i9 Sports program issued a statement saying it is reviewing the incident, emphasizing respect for all children and families, and pledging not to speculate while the investigation proceeds.