Baseball assistant coaches return to full-time practice

By Taylor St. Germain
News Editor

Mira Costa assistant baseball coaches returned to full-time practices on Jan. 28 following a previous restriction of play due to the findings in an administrative review of the program.

The review was conducted after several anonymous parent complaints of physical, verbal and emotional abuse were brought to the district. According to Mira Costa Principal Dr. Ben Dale, the administration found no official evidence of the accusations after the review was completed.

“Our primary concern is always student and player safety,” Dale said. “We believe in Cassidy Olson, and we believe he is the right coach for Mira Costa baseball.”

Prior to Jan. 28, players were released at 3 p.m. due to the limitations set on the coaching staff. The team is now able to hold traditional practices lasting past sixth period.

“I didn’t need an investigation to know that these allegations are false,” assistant coach Andy Caine said. “The bottom line is, we’re back to playing baseball.”

Olson will remain suspended until March 25 due to personnel reasons following the review. Until then, he is not able to practice with the team past regular school hours. The baseball team officially begins its season on Feb. 23 with a game against Santa Margarita High School.

“We are behind where we normally are with the restrictions on the program, but we have a great program with very talented players,” Olson said.

Some parents are still not content with the decision to let Olson return as head baseball coach in March. Baseball parent Brian Clebowicz spoke on Wednesday at the Manhattan Beach Unified School District Board meeting.

“We can’t accept this disruptive behavior, lack of accountability and example set for our children,” Clebowicz said. “We respectfully request the School Board’s help in dismissing this disruptive coaching element and bringing in a proactive head coach.”