TAMPA - First-year Wharton boys track coach Jason Tyrrell was given a seven-day suspension and $250 fine by the Florida High School Athletic Association because of an argument with an official at the Griffin-Fraundorfer Relays at Hillsborough High.
The incident involved a dispute in the high-jump competition where Tyrrell wanted the standards and pit moved to accommodate an athlete, according to FHSAA director of communications Jack Watford
Tyrrell said his athlete jumped off his left foot, which was problematic because the pit and standards were set for right-footed jumpers. When his athlete missed the pit and landed on his back on the asphalt, Tyrrell became angered at the meet official for not having the pit in the correct position. A report filed to the FHSAA states Tyrrell used foul language and tossed a clipboard. Tyrrell admitted he cursed, "but only after the official used profanity toward me first." He denies throwing a clipboard.
"I'll admit that no matter what happened I shouldn't have used profanity," Tyrrell said. "But if I'm being held accountable, then the officials should also be held accountable for using profanity and for having things set up incorrectly."
Tyrrell will miss today's meet against Plant and Tuesday's meet against Jesuit. Tyrrell also said he plans to appeal soon.
