Soccer was canceled at Captain Johnston Blakely Elementary School this week after students exhibited “inappropriate behavior,” according to school officials.

A note was sent home with students reporting that aggressive behavior was noted during morning, lunch and afternoon recess.

Officials hope the time-out will keep kids safe.

“Principal Reese Ande canceled soccer for one week to ensure the safety of all students, which is always a top priority. There has been an increase in physicality and the field is muddy,” said Galen Crawford Goff, spokeswoman for the Bainbridge Island School District.

“The one-week break from soccer allows time for the reestablishment of rules and the importance of playing all games correctly and safely while the field, hopefully, dries out. Preventing anyone from getting hurt was the rationale,” Goff said.

In the note to parents, Ande noted students would be met with during lunch recess for a reminder of rules and the consequences of breaking the rules.

Parents were also asked to volunteer time to act as referees to encourage organized and safe play time.