PITTSBURGH (KDKA) – Eric Kasperowicz, head coach of Pine-Richland, and his entire coaching staff will not return in the fall.
(Photo credit: KDKA)
KDKA confirmed that Kasperowicz and his coaching staff were notified by email on Wednesday that they would not return. The Pine-Richland Football program is the reigning 5A WPIAL champion and PIAA state champion. Kasperowicz has won four WPIAL titles and two state championships.
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The move was a shock to current and former players. After the news broke, players showed up at the stadium to give their support to the coaching staff.
“It’s crazy,” said Charlie Mill, senior wide receiver. ‘All these coaches, the whole coaching staff, treat me like a boy. I would not be where I am without them. ”
The school district did not say why the coaches’ contracts would not be renewed, but KDKA confirmed that the school had talked to previous players about possible exposure incidents. Several players going back at least five years have been contacted by the school.
Mills was one of the people interviewed by school administrators.
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“They said nothing was going to happen to coach Kasper, and they asked for honesty. And then they turned it back on all the people they interviewed, ”Mill said.
“It’s crazy and pathetic to think that someone would try to land it on this show,” said Jordan Crawford, a former player.
Kasperowicz released a statement on Thursday morning about the shooting.
‘I was informed yesterday that my coaching contract will not be renewed. I am disappointed with this decision and would like to state unequivocally that there has been no bullying or embezzlement in the Pine-Richland football program under my watch. I never condoned any bullying or embezzlement. When I became aware of such allegations, I met the individuals and terminated them immediately. I addressed and resolved these irregular events during my 8-year term internally in the team. The players and coaches were made aware of my zero tolerance for this type of behavior. If it had taken place under my supervision or bullying, I would definitely have followed the proper reporting procedures as always in my career. I want to thank all my supporters who know that the safety and well-being of students is and will always be my highest priority. ”
The Pine-Richland school district released this statement through their director of communications.
“The Pine-Richland school district does not comment on staff matters. The Pine-Richland athletics division will advertise for the position as head football coach for varsity. The team achieved success on the field. The athletics department recognizes the time, energy and expertise invested by the entire coaching staff. ”
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Stay tuned to KDKA for more information on this evolving story.