Student crushed by basketball hoop; parents accuse coach of coercion

A Taiwanese high school student's tragic death has ignited a firestorm of accusations against a basketball coach. The student, identified only by his surname Chen, was fatally injured on August 20 when crushed by an electric hydraulic basketball hoop in the school gymnasium.

Chen's parents have come forward, presenting LINE messages from the basketball team's group chat that they claim prove the coach, surnamed Qiu, coerced players into assisting with moving the heavy equipment. According to the parents, Qiu allegedly threatened to prohibit the boys' basketball team from using the gymnasium for training and games if they did not help. Chen, who was not initially scheduled to practice that day, reportedly came to school solely to assist with moving the hoop.

School officials stated that moving the large, electric hydraulic basketball hoop typically requires trained staff and involves a specific procedure, including plugging it in. They confirmed that Qiu also serves as the head of the school's sports division. The school principal mentioned that teachers and coaches usually handle the operation of the hoop. However, Qiu's current whereabouts and statement regarding the incident remain unknown as he has not yet been contacted.

In response to the tragedy and the allegations, Chen's parents have enlisted the help of local county councilors. They are preparing to file a claim for national compensation with the Hsinchu County government, seeking to clarify responsibility and ensure justice for their son. The family hopes this incident will prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future.

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If you don't come to help, the boys' basketball team will be banned from training and playing in the Cultural Hall from now on.