TAMPA -- The Rayhawk, a trend ever since Tampa Bay Rays players starting sporting them, has gotten a 12-year-old boy an in-school suspension.
"I was surprised. It's just a hairdo, really nothing, just a hairdo," said Zach Sharples, an honor student at Lincoln Middle in Manatee County.
Sharples said he must stay under in-school suspension until he changes the haircut or grows it out.
"I'm doing the Mohawk because I'm supporting my Rays team and it's definitely unfair I'm getting in trouble for rooting for my favorite team," he said.
Sharples' Mohawk is less than an inch high, but a representative for the school district said it is outlined in the dress code -- no distracting hairstyles.
The representative also said they support the Rays and are allowing students to wear Rays clothing to show support.
The hairdo isn't sitting well for some at work either.
"I'm a diehard Rays fan," said 16-year-old Matt Sommer, a bagger for a Publix store in Pinellas County.
Sommer was warned about his Mohawk hairstyle.
"They said I have to cut it or they'll send me home and possibly fire me," he said.
Sommer said he's not even allowed to cover it with a hat.
In a statement, Publix said they understand a person's hairstyle does not reflect their character or ability to carry out their duties, but they go on to say conservative hairstyles create an overall atmosphere that makes customers feel most comfortable.
Follow The Rays
The Rays will face the Boston Red Sox in Game 1 of the American League Championship series on Friday at 8:37 p.m. in St. Petersburg.
On Friday, Bright House Sports Network will present a pre-Game show beginning at 7pm. Fred McGriff joins Rock Riley and Tom Buehring to bring you expert analysis and player interviews Live from Tropicana Field.
The Post Game show will air immediately following the game with Tom Buehring and Lance Carter -- former Rays pitcher -- in the studio and Rock Live at the Trop.
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