In a recent development that has sent shockwaves through the Northville community, girls' basketball coach Jim Zullo has been dismissed following a postgame incident involving senior player Hailey Monroe. The episode, captured on camera, shows Zullo pulling Monroe's ponytail after the Falcons' loss to LaFargeville in the Class D New York State championship game at Hudson Valley Community College.
Monroe, who had fouled out during the game and is celebrated as the program's all-time leading scorer, was seen reacting to the unexpected gesture. The footage further depicts a teammate intervening between Zullo and Monroe before the scene shifts away.
In response to the incident, the Northville Central School District promptly issued a statement expressing deep concern over the coach's conduct:
"We hold our coaches to the highest standards of professionalism, sportsmanship, and respect for our student-athletes, and this behavior is completely unacceptable."
The district emphasized its commitment to maintaining a respectful and supportive environment for its athletes, announcing that Zullo "will no longer be coaching for the Northville Central School District." They also assured the community of ongoing support for the affected players and their families.
The incident has sparked discussions about appropriate coaching behavior and the importance of safeguarding student-athletes' well-being. As the community grapples with the aftermath, the focus remains on ensuring such incidents do not recur and that the values of respect and integrity are upheld within all school programs.
(Clip of Incident Involving Zullo & Monroe)