Glastonbury football coach Eric Hennessy, who was investigated following a parent’s complaint and exonerated earlier in the month, has taken a leave of absence, according to an email sent out by Glastonbury High athletic director Trish Witkin to parents of football players.
“Head coach Eric Hennessy has requested to take a leave of absence starting (Monday), with the goal of returning later in the season,” the email read.
One of the team’s assistant coaches, Shannon Goode, will take over as interim head coach in the meantime, the email stated.
“Unexpected changes like this can surprise and unsettle us,” the email read. “Please understand that because this is a personnel matter, we are unable to provide any more information.”
Witkin could not be reached for comment.
Hennessy was investigated following what was termed an “incident” earlier in the month after a parent complaint. A petition on Change.org, which was started Sept. 30 and has collected 173 signatures, called for the coach’s immediate termination, citing “inappropriate and violent behavior” and “bullying.”
Superintendent Alan Bookman wrote in an email about the investigation earlier in the month: “After interviewing coaches, students and reviewing the video of the incident, we found nothing to support the claim by the parent.”
Bookman said Thursday, “The coach asked for a temporary leave, and we said ‘Yes,’ and hopefully, when whatever is cleared up, he’ll be back again. We found nothing (in the investigation). He made the decision, informed the boys. It was emotional for all of them. He said he expects to be back soon.
“This is something he just wants to make sure his name is cleared.”
Hennessy continued to coach during the investigation. He did not respond to a request for a comment Thursday. Hennessy is in his fifth year of coaching at Glastonbury. The Guardians (4-1) will play Hall Friday at 7 p.m. at Glastonbury High.
This is the second time a Glastonbury coach has been involved in controversy this fall. Earlier this month, boys soccer coach Chris Vozzolo was suspended by the school for the rest of the season after an incident in the parking lot involving officials after he was red carded and thrown out of a game.