High school basketball coach Jim Zullo has apologized after being fired for pulling a player’s ponytail during a post-game incident that was caught on camera.
Northville High School lost the Class D New York State championship game to La Fargeville 43-37 on March 21. After the game, Coach Zullo approached senior Hailey Monroe—who appeared emotional—and yanked her hair before scolding her. Reports say Monroe had sworn at him after being told to shake hands with the opposing team.
The video quickly went viral, sparking outrage. The Northville Central School District responded: “The District is aware of, and deeply disturbed by, the conduct… This individual will no longer be coaching for the Northville Central School District.”
Zullo has since issued a public apology. “I deeply regret my behavior… I want to offer my sincerest apologies to Hailey and her family, our team, the good folks at Northville Central Schools and our community,” he stated. “Under no circumstance is it acceptable to put my hands on a player, and I am truly sorry.”