Follow IdahoSports.com on Twitter: @IdahoSports
Article updated on 9/25/2014 at 1:55 p.m. to reflect District 25's statement.
Article updated on 9/25/2014 at 11:42 p.m. to reflect Tom Harrison's statement to Local News 8.
Pocatello Indians head football coach Tom Harrison was suspended Wednesday by the high school. The news was first reported by Local News 8's Chris Renkel.
Harrison's suspension was made known to the players of the Indians football team at practice on Wednesday. According to Renkel, Pocatello Principal Lisa Delanos and Athletic Director Robert Parker interrupted practice to notify the team of the suspension.
Attempts by Local News 8's SportsLine to contact Harrison and representatives of School District #25 on Wednesday night were unsuccessful.
Pocatello Principal Lisa Delonas did issue a short statement, saying "The district will conduct an investigation on whether or not further action needs to be taken."
Defensive coordinator Willy Joe Walker has been named the Indians interim head coach.
Harrison's suspension, according to Renkel's sources, comes in the aftermath of the Indians last game vs. Idaho Falls.
While nothing has been confirmed as of yet, there may be more reasons for the suspension than just this incident.
District 25 issued a statement on Thursday afternoon, saying, "We are confident our football season will continue, without interruption and in a positive direction, under Coach Walker's leadership. With the continued support of our highly qualified assistant coaching staff, dedicated players, parents, and the community, we will maintain Pocatello High School's tradition of pride and excellence."
District 25 could not give any further information regarding Harrison as they cited that Idaho laws prevented them from discussing specific personnel matters."
While the assistant coaching staff and players at Pocatello High School were not allowed to comment on the situation, they did offer some insight into their preparation for their game at Preston on Friday. Renkel did catch up with Harrison, who made a brief statement.
Harrison has led the Pocatello football program since June 2, 2003 after 14 years at Snake River High School. His Indians teams have made three state championship appearances in his time at the school, including one state championship victory in 2006.
More information will be posted as this story develops.
|