Who Is Jim Zullo? Northville Basketball Coach Fired After Pulling Player's Hair

Jim Zullo, an 81-year-old basketball coaching legend in New York high school sports, has been fired from his position as head coach of the Northville High School girls’ basketball team after a video surfaced showing him pulling a player’s hair following a heartbreaking loss.

The incident, which unfolded after Northville's 43-37 defeat to LaFargeville in the New York Class D State Championship at Hudson Valley Community College, has sparked outrage across the school community and beyond.

Jim Zullo, has been fired after a video of him pulling a female player by the hair

The Viral Moment

In a video that quickly went viral on social media, Zullo can be seen grabbing senior player Hailey Monroe by her ponytail in what appears to be a heated exchange. Monroe, visibly frustrated after the loss, is approached by Zullo near the sideline before the shocking moment occurs. Another player steps in seconds later, separating the two.

The footage, captured by a spectator and circulated widely, has drawn condemnation from parents, students, and the broader high school sports community.

School District's Swift Response

In an official statement, the Northville Central School District said they are "deeply disturbed" by the video. The district didn’t mince words, calling Zullo’s behavior "completely unacceptable" and confirming that he "will no longer be coaching for Northville."

“The safety and well-being of our student-athletes is our top priority,” the district added. “We are working directly with the affected players and their families to provide support.”

What Sparked the Incident?

Speaking to local media, Zullo said the situation escalated when Monroe allegedly swore after being told to participate in the traditional post-game handshake with LaFargeville players. “I told her to show sportsmanship and shake hands,” Zullo said. “She responded with profanity, and I lost my composure.”

Regardless of the explanation, parents and school officials have made it clear that physical contact of this nature has no place in high school athletics.

Who is Jim Zullo? Biography, Career and Personal Life

Coaching Career:

Jim Zullo is a veteran high school basketball coach from New York with a career spanning more than three decades and a record of notable accomplishments.

• Career Achievements: Over 31 years, Zullo led his teams to 469 victories, 12 league championships, and 7 Section 2 titles.

• State Championship: During the 1986-1987 season, he coached Shenendehowa High School to a NYSPHSAA and Federation State Championship title.

• Additional Contributions: Zullo co-founded the High Five and Low Five basketball summer camps, initiated the Uncas Holiday Tournament, and was a co-founder of the Greg Koubek basketball camp. He also served as a coach for the Empire State Games.

Recognition:

• Hall of Fame Induction: In 2006, Zullo was inducted into the New York State Basketball Hall of Fame.

• Awards: He has received multiple Coach of the Year honors from various leagues and media organizations.

Personal Life:

• Family: Jim Zullo was married to Linda Zullo, who sadly passed away on January 14, 2024, after battling cancer at the age of 73.

Community Shocked and Divided

The incident has divided parts of the Northville community. Some longtime supporters of Zullo were stunned by his behavior but pointed to his decades of service and mentorship. Others, however, say the situation highlights a pattern of outdated coaching methods clashing with modern standards of student-athlete welfare.

“This is not 1985,” one parent said. “You don’t put your hands on kids. Period.”

What’s Next?

The district has launched an internal review of the program’s culture and will likely face pressure to implement stricter codes of conduct for coaching staff moving forward.

Meanwhile, Monroe and her family have not released a public statement, but sources close to the family told local media they are weighing their options and are in contact with legal counsel.

As for Zullo, the Hall of Fame coach who came out of retirement to chase another title will now leave the game under a cloud of controversy.

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