Cumberland High School’s boys soccer team played its first game Wednesday night, a 2-0 loss to Bishop Hendricken, following a one-week postponement due to a “bullying and/or hazing incident” involving team members. Superintendent Philip D. Thornton described the incident in a press release.
The delayed season opener against North Kingstown was postponed after the incident came to light, leading to disciplinary action against multiple players. Coach Larry Lopes fielded a lineup different from what he had anticipated for the 2026 campaign. “We're proud of the boys,” Lopes said. “They came out, they gave us all we wanted, and this is our team going forward. We're going to work on them to get better.”
Lucas Marques stood out as goalkeeper, making six saves, while senior Ethan Cardeal played a solid 80 minutes. Gavin Antonio was absent due to illness but is expected to return shortly. Lopes utilized two freshmen and three sophomores against Bishop Hendricken. Charlie Urso scored both goals for Bishop Hendricken, in the 60th and 65th minutes, off of throw-ins.
Lopes stated the team is “just changing the way we do things with the kids that we have,” adding, “We have talent. It's just a matter of them getting comfortable with each other.” He did not disclose the identities of the players involved or the specific punishments administered, noting that removal from the roster or suspension were possibilities. The team has 10 seniors on the roster.
Athletic director Marty Crowley stated, “We're here playing soccer tonight. Our team is our team. We're playing soccer against a very tough opponent, and we're moving forward.” Crowley, along with Superintendent Thornton, handled the matter. Lopes said, “The administration was straightforward with it, transparent. I accept exactly what the administration did. The boys, I'm sure they feel sorry. Lessons learned.” Cumberland has won at least nine matches in the last three regular seasons and reached the semifinals twice. Lopes had over 80 players try out for the team this fall.
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