DUXBURY, Mass. (WBZ NewsRadio) — The head coach of the Duxbury football program has been fired, according to Duxbury School Superintendent John Antonucci.
This comes after players of the Duxbury High School football team used anti-Semitic language during a recent game.
On March 12, during a game against Plymouth North, players on the Duxbury football team started using anti-Semitic language at the line of scrimmage.
Antonucci released a letter to the community about the incident.
“Some of the language in question had religious connotations, and while it was not directed at the opposing team or at any individual, there is simply no excuse for it,” he stated. “Behavior that promotes anything less than full equity and inclusion is an attack on the core values of the Duxbury Public Schools and is inexcusable.”
Maimaron was hired in 2005 and led Duxbury to a 159-43 record and five Super Bowl titles.
He is also a teacher in the school system and is on administrative leave for that position.
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Here is the letter Antonucci sent out to the Duxbury community:
Dear Duxbury Community,
We are writing to provide you some information about an incident that occurred during last week's high school football game. Specifically, it was reported, and ultimately confirmed, that our team used highly offensive language on the field as part of a play-call system designed to make on-field adjustments. It is important to note that while the players clearly demonstrated poor judgment, the responsibility for this incident also lies with the adults overseeing the program. In short, this was a systemic failure.
Some of the language in question had religious connotations, and while it was not directed at the opposing team or at any individual, there is simply no excuse for it. Behavior that promotes anything less than full equity and inclusion is an attack on the core values of the Duxbury Public Schools and is inexcusable. We need to live these values, and we need to act accordingly.
When we learned of this situation last week, we immediately launched an investigation, and while it is still ongoing, we want to share some information with you. First, the play-call system in question was immediately halted. In addition, although we are not at liberty to discuss personnel or student discipline matters, we are taking appropriate action in accordance with district policy. It is also evident that education is needed for all members of the football program about the impact of the words we use on and off the field. To that end, we are instituting a mandatory training for the team in the near future. Finally, our administration will be conducting a review to determine how we can integrate the elements of diversity, equity, and inclusion into all of our athletic and co-curricular programs. As we move forward, it is critical that our entire student body - especially our student-athletes who often represent Duxbury across the Commonwealth - understand the expectations around sportsmanship and fundamental respect.
Unfortunately, incidents such as these happen far too often, and we need to do better. Words matter and ignorance can no longer be an excuse. As educators, we are firmly committed to leading this effort, but it will take the support of the entire Duxbury community if we are going to make our town a place where all are truly welcome.
Sincerely,
John Antonucci, Superintendent
Danielle Klingaman, Assistant Superintendent
James Donovan, High School Principal
This story remains under investigation.
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