The Ballard Beavers volleyball team faced an uphill battle earlier this week as they tried to win one more game to qualify for the KingCo Tournament with seven of 11 players suspended.

Ballard Athletic Director Doug Bruketta confirmed the suspensions last week but could not provide any details. The players had been caught drinking alcohol at a team bonding party on Oct. 14.

"They broke the rules," said Principal Phil Brockman. "We are dealing with it internally. They are great kids and are part of the Beaver family."

The Seattle Public School's Athletic/Activity Substance Abuse Policy for possession or use calls for immediate exclusion from the team for 20 percent of the games after an infraction occurs. If less than 20 percent of the contests remain, there is a carryover into the next sport played, including the following year. Athletes may continue to participate in team activities but cannot dress for games.

Earlier this season, the team was plagued by injuries and junior varsity players were called up to take their places. The junior varsity players played well.

Players who violate the policy cannot participate in athletics for one year, unless they and their parents agree to take part in and complete an assessment and education under the direction of a substance abuse education program. That program has to meet the approval of the school or the school district.

The school had a substance abuse counsel on staff up until last year. The position was cut by the school district due to lack of funds.