Community
Tensions Rise Following Physical Altercation Between Rival Groups Near Academy Grounds
By Shawn Lynn• 9/25/2026
•1 min
For reference, please see the Softball Highlights for Wednesday, August 12.
ACADEMY DISTRICT — Tensions between local groups escalated dramatically following a physical altercation near Academy grounds on August 12, culminating in a high-stakes standoff that was settled by an athletic matchup.
The incident occurred when members of “The Scholars,” a local bicycle group operating within the Academy district, were riding in formation. Witnesses report the group was confronted by members of a local organization known as “The Big Boys,” who requested that The Scholars cease ringing their bells due to proximity to a nearby business establishment. According to reports, the confrontation quickly turned physical. The Scholars allegedly initiated an assault that left several members of The Big Boys with significant injuries.
In an exclusive interview conducted at an undisclosed location under conditions of anonymity, Scholars’ leader Dominic Babson addressed the rising hostility between the factions.
“If we can’t beat them on the streets, we’ll beat them on the field,” Babson stated.
The athletic rivalry between the two organizations currently stands at a 15–14 win for the Scholars. Organizers and community members are preparing for the upcoming final game, where heightened security measures, medical support, and ice stations will be on site to manage potential injuries and prevent further off-field escalation. Local authorities and Academy administrators continue to monitor the situation, with community members encouraging anyone with additional information to assist in ongoing inquiries.
ACADEMY DISTRICT — Tensions between local groups escalated dramatically following a physical altercation near Academy grounds on August 12, culminating in a high-stakes standoff that was settled by an athletic matchup.
The incident occurred when members of “The Scholars,” a local bicycle group operating within the Academy district, were riding in formation. Witnesses report the group was confronted by members of a local organization known as “The Big Boys,” who requested that The Scholars cease ringing their bells due to proximity to a nearby business establishment. According to reports, the confrontation quickly turned physical. The Scholars allegedly initiated an assault that left several members of The Big Boys with significant injuries.
In an exclusive interview conducted at an undisclosed location under conditions of anonymity, Scholars’ leader Dominic Babson addressed the rising hostility between the factions.
“If we can’t beat them on the streets, we’ll beat them on the field,” Babson stated.
The athletic rivalry between the two organizations currently stands at a 15–14 win for the Scholars. Organizers and community members are preparing for the upcoming final game, where heightened security measures, medical support, and ice stations will be on site to manage potential injuries and prevent further off-field escalation. Local authorities and Academy administrators continue to monitor the situation, with community members encouraging anyone with additional information to assist in ongoing inquiries.