Marist Catholic High School in Oregon fired football coach Zach Loboy after his team defeated rival Cottage Grove 63-0 last Friday, according to the supplied report. The school confirmed the decision in an email, saying it had concluded that a leadership change was needed to reflect the school’s mission and values.
The game was halted at halftime and did not resume. Cottage Grove athletic director Garrett Bridgens told The Register-Guard that stopping the contest was considered the best course for the players, fans and others involved.
A key moment came in the second quarter, when Marist attempted an onside kick despite holding a 57-0 lead, the report said. The source describes the play as the immediate context for the school’s action, but the school’s email did not explicitly state that the kick was the reason Loboy was dismissed.
In a separate message obtained by KVAL, Marist said its priorities included supporting players, preserving a positive team environment and helping the team complete the season. The school also acknowledged that changing coaches during the season could be difficult for players and families, and asked for their understanding and support as the transition proceeded.
The available account does not include a response from Loboy, details about who will lead the team next, or an explanation of how the school determined the change was necessary. The firing followed the rivalry game, but the school’s public comments focused on its mission, values and the team’s needs rather than directly attributing the decision to one play.
