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Extra security added for Valley vs. Apollo-Ridge after racist social media post

Extra security added for Valley vs. Apollo-Ridge after social media post
Extra security added for Valley vs. Apollo-Ridge after social media post 01:57

NEW KENSINGTON, Pa. (KDKA) — Extra security was added for the Valley vs. Apollo-Ridge football game on Friday.

There was a larger police presence at Viking Stadium after the Valley High football team was recently targeted in a racist social media post leading up to the game.

"We are also on an extra height of vigilance to pay attention to everything that's going on and be one step ahead," New Kensington-Arnold School District Superintendent Chris S. Sefcheck said.

The superintendents of both school districts said they were pleased to work together during what they say was a difficult week.

"I would sum it up as hope," Sefcheck said. "I hope we can create generations that create peace and working together and that's what we're trying to strive for."

The post has since been taken down, but the New Kensington-Arnold School District said it shows the Valley High football team in a hateful, offensive and racist manner.  

Apollo-Ridge Superintendent Matt Curci said a juvenile is responsible for it but is not associated with the football team. He said the pictures were posted on a non-district affiliated website.    

The situation is being investigated by law enforcement. 

Curci sent a statement to KDKA-TV on Friday, saying:  

"Our unified efforts have shown that both of our districts are committed to positive relationships, and we are looking forward to that culminating in an opportunity for our school communities to bond.

"l am thankful that we are moving forward together - refusing to encourage further division but focusing on unity, compassion, and respect."

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