The boys’ hockey program at Pope Francis Preparatory High School has been the subject of an investigation into an alleged violation of MIAA rules, resulting in the temporary ineligibility of head coach Brian Foley for one year.
The Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association (MIAA) received a formal complaint from a member school regarding the boys’ hockey program at Pope Francis Prep on November 27. Following an investigation, the MIAA discovered that Coach Foley had violated a specific rule related to out-of-season coach-athlete contact, leading to sanctions outlined in the MIAA handbook.
In accordance with MIAA standards, any coach found to have breached the rules, or failed to prevent violations, is ineligible to participate or be present at any MIAA approved or sponsored interscholastic competition in that sport for a period of one year from the date of determination of the rule violation. Pope Francis Prep Head of School Dr. Paul Harrington announced that Coach Foley will step back from his role as head coach for the Cardinals and that the school intends to appeal the ruling by submitting a request to the MIAA for a hearing.
To ensure the continued functioning of the hockey program during Foley’s absence, the school has appointed Daniel Fenton as the interim head coach alongside Coaches Ashe and Kenney, with the goal of ensuring ongoing development and success for the hockey program. Dr. Harrington emphasized the school’s aspiration for a fair and efficient appeals process that would lead to Foley’s return in the shortest time possible, acknowledging the coach’s substantial contribution to the program over his 34-year tenure.
Western Mass News will closely monitor this situation and provide updates as they become available. (WGGB/WSHM)