Sports can become incredibly intense at times, with a lot on the line during some matches. While the athletes might be anxious, their coaches and other associated staff are equally worried.

An incident during a high school game highlighted how sometimes this sentiment can turn toxic.

On March 21, 2025, Northville High School’s basketball team lost to La Fargeville at the New York State Public High School Athletic Association Class D finals 43-37.

The event was being live-streamed, and a shocking moment was caught on camera. Since then, it has gone viral and confounded many people. Northville High School’s coach, Jim Zullo, was seen pulling the ponytail of player Hailey Monroe.

The coach seemed upset over the loss and went over to Monroe to pull her hair before he began to verbally berate her.

According to reports, Monroe had sworn at the coach after he had told her to shake hands with the opposing team. After the video went viral of Zullo pulling the student’s hair, he was immediately fired.

The school district responded to the incident. “The Northville Central School District is aware of, and deeply disturbed by, the conduct of the Coach of the Girls’ Varsity basketball team during the Class D New York State championship game,” the school said.