The so-called "tap" was a tort called battery, so technically you can sue. The biggest issue would be damages. There doesn't appear to be physical harm (though maybe emotional damages). You inquiry suggests that the complaint led to discrimination by being cut from the team. If your child is an elite athlete, then being cut may lessen her chances of being admitted to a university sports program, winning scholarships, etc. If this is the case, then there may be real and actionable damages stemming from this incident. Talk to an experience personal injury lawyer to see if there are enough damages to make it worthwhile to sue. Another possibility is mediating with the school. We'd be glad to do that since it is an education law matter, as well as a personal injury.
