By Gwurld4026 
Coach Fired for Pulling Player’s Hair: Jail Time Looms
Jim Zullo, the 81-year-old former girls’ basketball coach at Northville High School in New York, has been charged with second-degree harassment following an incident where he was recorded pulling a player’s ponytail after a championship game loss.
The incident occurred on March 21, 2025, after Northville’s 43-37 defeat in the New York State Class D championship game against LaFargeville. The player involved was senior Hailey Monroe, the team’s all-time leading scorer. Footage shows Zullo tugging Monroe’s hair as she stood visibly upset on the sidelines.
The Northville Central School District responded promptly by terminating Zullo’s coaching position, emphasizing their commitment to maintaining a respectful and safe environment for all students.
Zullo has publicly expressed deep regret for his actions, acknowledging that it was unacceptable to physically engage with a player and extending apologies to Monroe, her family, the team, and the school community.
In New York, second-degree harassment is classified as a violation, not a criminal offense, and carries potential penalties including fines and community service.