High School Coach in Film Controversy Reinstated - East Idaho News
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High School Coach in Film Controversy Reinstated

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abc mike hvizdo dm 130301 wblog1?  SQUARESPACE CACHEVERSION=1362180922293ABC News(WESTON, Conn.) — A popular Connecticut high school basketball coach will be reinstated to his position this weekend after allegedly being forced out when a controversial, decade-old film he appeared in was emailed to his bosses.

The film in question is called Forbidden Fruit, and it was directed and produced by Steve Moramarco, who went on to act in the hit sitcom Everybody Hates Chris and produce the 2006 feature Tenacious D in The Pick of Destiny. Coach Mike Hvizdo was shocked when the film, which he had almost forgotten, resurfaced and cost him his job.

Hvizdo will be reinstated as head basketball coach for Weston High School in Weston, Conn., on Saturday.

“I couldn’t be happier to be reinstated as head coach of Weston High School boys’ basketball,” Hvizdo said in a joint statement with the school administration this afternoon. “This has been a tough few weeks for everyone and I want to thank all those involved – including players, parents, friends and family, and especially my wife Carissa, who has been my rock – for all of their love and support. ”

The school administration and Hvizdo “worked through the issues surrounding Mr. Hvzido’s resignation,” and, “clarified the district’s expectation concerning his performance,” according to the statement.

“We welcome Mr. Hvizdo back to our coaching staff, and we wish him and the boys basketball team every success in the future,” the statement said.

When the video was sent to his bosses, Hvizdo defended himself by saying it was not illegal or pornographic, and he was just an actor. The school superintendant disagreed, saying the film was sexually explicit and vulgar.

After meeting with Hvizdo, the school said he agreed to resign. The principal sent a letter to parents saying he quit because of “personal reasons” and that he “could not lead the program the way it needs to be led.”

Hvizdo said he was forced out, but the community rallied around him.

“It’s time to move forward and I am excited to get back on the sidelines with my team on Monday night for our first state playoff game,” he said.

 

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