High School Coach Fired After Grabbing Player by Her Hair

A New York coach found himself without a job after taking things a pull too far. The high school basketball coach has been fired after cameras caught him yanking one of his players by the ponytail following a tough loss.

The now-viral clip features Northville girls’ basketball coach Jim Zullo pulling senior Hailey Monroe’s hair during the Class D girls’ basketball final at Hudson Valley Community College. Monroe, the team’s all-time leading scorer, had fouled out before Northville ultimately lost to LaFargeville.

In the footage, you can see the moment unfold—Zullo grabs Monroe’s ponytail, and before things can escalate, a teammate quickly steps in between them. Then, just like that, the camera cuts away. But the damage was already done.

Love News? Get more! Join the The Morning Hustle Newsletter

Subscribe

We care about your data. See our privacy policy.

Once the video hit the internet, he was pretty much unemployed. The backlash was swift, with people calling for Zullo’s immediate removal. And Northville didn’t waste time—he was fired from his coaching position soon after.

But let’s be real: this never should’ve happened in the first place. Whether it was frustration or just straight-up poor judgment, no coach—or any school staff—should be putting their hands on a student like that. It’s a basketball game, not boot camp.

So, what happens if you or someone you know experiences something similar? Parents and students need to know their rights. If a coach, teacher, or administrator gets physical in any way:

• Report it immediately. Whether it’s to a principal, school board, or even law enforcement if necessary, don’t let it slide.
• Get the evidence. If there’s video, screenshots, or witnesses, document everything.
• Know the policies. Schools have codes of conduct for staff—make sure they follow through with consequences.
• Advocate for student safety. No adult should be putting their hands on a child. Period.

At the end of the day, coaches are supposed to lead, not intimidate. Hopefully, this situation serves as a reminder that there’s no room for that kind of behavior in youth sports.If you or someone you know has been harmed by a school staff member, don’t stay silent—report it to the proper authorities and make sure they’re held accountable.