Oregon High School Football Coach Fired After Controversial Game

A high school football coach in Oregon was dismissed after his team overwhelmingly defeated a rival, causing significant controversy. Zach Loboy, the head coach at Marist Catholic High School, was removed from his position following his team’s crushing 63-0 victory over Cottage Grove.

The school announced in an email that “a change in leadership was necessary to reflect our school’s mission and values.” This decision appears related to Loboy’s choice to execute an onside kick while leading 57-0 in the first half.

The game, which took place last Friday, ended prematurely at halftime. Cottage Grove’s Athletic Director Garrett Bridgens confirmed to The Register-Guard that stopping the game early was made “in the best interest of our kids, our fans — the entire situation.” The abrupt end underscored the disparate levels of talent between Cottage Grove and Marist Catholic, as seen in past score differentials.

Last season, Cottage Grove recorded a 1-8 win-loss record and has been outscored 105-0 over their last three games. This clear mismatch between the teams raised questions about the significance of the rivalry and whether the outcome warranted the coach’s dismissal.

Observers noted disparities in team depth, with Marist sporting many reserve players whereas Cottage Grove had limited personnel. Despite these differences, the school emphasized their commitment to “support our players, maintain a positive team environment, and help the team finish the season strong.” They acknowledged that mid-season coaching changes pose challenges for players and families, seeking understanding and support during the transition.