The Harvard women’s ice hockey program, under scrutiny following a January report from the Boston Globe that alleged abusive behavior by coach Katey Stone and hazing within the program, held annual “Naked Skates” that were considered hazing by some players. And during a preseason event known as “Freshmen Fun Night,” some newcomers felt pressured to consume alcohol and simulate sex acts, according to new reporting by The Athletic.
Stone, 56, who has more wins than any other female coach in collegiate women’s hockey history, has coached at Harvard for 27 seasons. During most of those years, the hockey team held “Initiation Week,” which culminated with the “Freshmen Fun Night.” At that event, upperclassmen urged freshmen to, among other acts over the years, put condoms on bananas, fake orgasms and act out skits that referenced their sexual orientation. In some years, underaged players consumed alcohol until they passed out or vomited.
“For me, it was hazing,” said Tiana Harris, a member of the 2011-12 team.
The “Naked Skate” was painted as a team-building exercise and came later in the season, usually after the longest road trip. After arriving back on campus, upperclassmen would tell players to head to the locker room at The Bright-Landry Hockey…
