The parents of a Bothell Junior Football Association player pleaded not guilty to assault charges on Oct. 28 in Bothell Municipal Court.

Christina and Thomas Van Ruiten were charged following an altercation with a parent from an opposing team spiraled out of control on Oct. 4 at Pop Keeney stadium in Bothell.

Bothell police found that they instigated the physical violence despite the fact that the Renton parent allegedly taunted Christina Van Ruiten prior to punches being thrown.

The incident has resulted in The Council of The Greater Eastside Junior Football Association banning both teams from the playoffs.

The Van Ruitens will return to Bothell Municipal Court for their next hearing on Dec. 8.