Parents, players protest firing of Park Vista football head coach Leonard Weaver III
The firing of Park Vista football head coach Leonard Weaver has resulted in turmoil since the decision came to light last week.
Palm Beach County School District released a statement Friday announcing Park Vista was "parting ways" with Weaver. According to Weaver, his staff and some players and parents, there was little to no further explanation behind the termination.
Weaver, a Cocoa native and former NFL fullback, led Park Vista to a 7-2 finish in his lone season as head coach. He coached previously with Coral Springs.
Park Vista principal Enrique Vela responded to concerned parents in an email over the weekend, addressing many who felt there wasn't enough information given on Weaver's firing.
"We are grateful for Coach Weaver’s contributions and wish him well in the future. I understand why parents and players want to know the reasons why he is no longer with us," Vela wrote in the letter. "Unfortunately, that employee information needs to remain confidential."
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Good morning everyone, remember to live life to the fullest. There will always be someone who dislikes what you do, what you stand for and who you are. No matter what allow the effect of your life to change others, and let that be your voice. pic.twitter.com/rScmRpxR03
— TheRealCoachLeonard Weaver (@LeonardWeaver) February 15, 2022
About 100 people met to support Coach Weaver the night of his firing, per Patrick Mahon, father of Park Vista junior Aidan Mahon.
Park Vista players and parents have carried signs and protested on street corners every morning prior to the start of the school day. Parents have said they plan to continue their rallies until they are given a clear explanation for Weaver's termination.
Junior linebacker Gavin Peacock expressed shock at his departure.
"I loved him like he was a father to me and could not ask for a better coach," Peacock said.
Vela responded to questions from The Post on Wednesday, stating, "The most accurate information is contained in the letter that I have shared with the parents of our football players."
Vela said assistant coaches will handle daily football operations of the program in the interim, including the recruiting process for Park Vista unsigned seniors.
Emilee Smarr can be reached at emsarr@gannett.com.
This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Park Vista football faces protests after Leonard Weaver firing
