The Cincinnati Youth Soccer League is finding ways to move forward after the shot

CINCINNATI – While waiting for the final whistle during a youth football game at Walnut Hills High School, two teams of 11- and 12-year-olds heard screaming, arguing and eventually gunshots.

Milan Lanier, president of the Cincinnati United Youth Football & Cheer League, said the Evanston Bulldogs and West End Elite Royals had just 30 seconds left in their playoff game when the argument began.

According to police, two adult men began arguing before one man pulled out a gun and began shooting. Lanier said two men were injured – a parent and a coach. No children were injured, but Lanier said they were affected.

“The shock and horror on the kids’ faces at what was happening,” Lanier recalled.

CPD has not released any arrest information. On Sunday evening, CPD reported that there was a possible suspect, but he was not in custody at this time.

For leaders of the Cincinnati United Youth Football & Cheer League, the work now focuses on improving safety going forward. They gathered Monday evening in search of solutions.

“We are meeting with the rest of our league to discuss some safer things we can do,” Lanier said. “That doesn’t mean we haven’t done a lot of safe things, but we just want to all get together and brainstorm.”

He said some of the ideas include increased security, more volunteers and the possibility of metal detectors.

Lanier said the league was once again gathering families, players and parents on Tuesday to address the situation together.

“Just to make sure they have someone to talk to, that’s OK, it’s not their fault,” Lanier added.

The league released a statement on Monday. It read: “After careful consideration, we have made the firm decision to withdraw membership from the organization at the heart of this unfortunate event.”

The Cincinnati United Youth Football & Cheer League

League officials were unable to confirm which of the two clubs was removed from the league.

Lanier said this week’s games will likely be paused, but he hopes they can finish their playoffs at some point.

Pastor Peterson Mingo serves as spiritual advisor for the youth soccer league. He describes his work as a way to instill discipline in players and teach them to use the game as a means of dealing with emotions.

“Football teaches that you can react within the rules – the same applies in life,” said Mingo.

Because Sunday’s incident was the result of an argument between two adults, the league president sent a message to anyone who doesn’t put children’s safety first: “If you have outside problems, don’t bring them into the youth sports areas.”