One of the top high school baseball programs in New Jersey is suddenly looking for a new coach. Sunday morning, Mainland Regional High School announced that its longtime coach, Joe Smith, was resigning.
Smith told NJ.com that he was resigning as head baseball coach for personal reasons just one game into the season. However, multiple sources told the media outlet that an incident occurred during the high school baseball team’s recent preseason trip to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. They alleged that this is the real reason for the abrupt resignation.
Those sources did not elaborate on what the incident entailed. Mainland Regional also removed a volunteer coach from the baseball staff. Former coach and current athletic director Billy Kern will serve as the interim head coach while the school searches for a new one.
The high school superintendent ‘was made aware of concerns’
“Our athletes deserve to be in an environment where they are safe, respected, and supported to achieve both on and off the field,” Mainland Regional High School Superintendent Mark Marrone said in a statement. “When concerns are brought to our attention, we take them seriously and respond with the thoroughness they require. AD Kern’s immediate availability to stabilize the program ensures continuity and stability for our players, and I’m confident in his leadership and commitment to our athletes.”
The school district is still reviewing the situation. Once that is completed, Marrone said other changes may happen with the baseball coaching staff. Smith was 284-129-1 during his career as a high school baseball coach. He was the 10th-winningest active coach in Southern New Jersey. Mainland Regional was 1-0 at the time of Smith’s resignation.
“The district was made aware of concerns related to a recent team trip and has initiated a comprehensive review of those matters. This review is ongoing, and the district is committed to addressing any issues identified with the seriousness they deserve,” Marrone continued.
“As is district policy, we do not comment publicly on personnel matters beyond what is necessary to communicate operational updates. Any staffing decisions made by the district are handled with careful attention to confidentiality, due process, and all applicable state and federal regulations.”