A high school basketball coach in Northville was dismissed after being caught on camera pulling the ponytail of one of his players during a championship match.
The incident, which happened a few days ago, led to immediate action from the school district.
The event took place during the Class D girls’ basketball final at Hudson Valley Community College.
Senior player Hailey Monroe was at the center of the controversy after her coach, Jim Zullo, was seen pulling her hair following the team’s loss to LaFargeville.
Monroe had fouled out of the game when the altercation occurred.
In the footage, Monroe’s teammate, senior Ahmya Tompkins, is seen stepping in to defend her. Zullo appeared frustrated before the incident, which prompted Tompkins’ reaction.
Following public outcry, the Northville Central School District released a statement condemning Zullo’s actions.
The statement emphasized that the district holds its coaches to high standards of professionalism and respect, and that such behavior was unacceptable.
Officials assured that measures would be taken to prevent similar incidents in the future.
As a result, Zullo was immediately relieved of his coaching duties. The school reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining a respectful and safe environment for student-athletes.
Before the controversy, Zullo had led Northville’s basketball program to the state championship in 2024.
Having started his coaching career in the 1970s, he had previously enjoyed significant success and was even inducted into the New York State Basketball Hall of Fame in 2006.
The incident has sparked discussions on coach conduct in youth sports, with many emphasizing the need for stricter oversight.
An investigation is currently underway to ensure accountability.
The sudden dismissal of Zullo has left the basketball program in search of new leadership, as the school focuses on rebuilding its reputation and prioritizing student safety.