Woodstock Team Apologizes For 'Barbie' Crucifix

By John Dodge

CHICAGO (CBS) -- Members of a girl's high school basketball team have apologized for celebrating a victory by posing under a crucifix with a Barbie doll.

After Woodstock High School won the regional tournament, the team celebrated by posing together under a small crucifix with a Barbie doll fastened to the cross.

The regional tournament was played at Marian Central, a Catholic high school

According to several published reports, the doll is the team's mascot and a sign of "girl power."

Once the image hit social media, several people expressed anger, calling the imagery offensive to Catholics.

Carol L. Smith, a spokeswoman for Woodstock Community Unit School District 200, said in an email that the team regrets its behavior.

"They have apologized for actions which caused a perception of disrespect for others' faith, school or community," Smith said.

The school is using incident to teach students about respect and appropriate ways to celebrate, Smith said.

Letters of apology have been sent to Marian Central's administration.

Smith said the team's coach, Jen Nichols-Hogle, was in the gymnasium at the time, but was not aware the photo was being taken.