Mead football coach fired for failing to report player misconduct

Keith Stamps, head football coach at Mead High School, was terminated for failing to adequately address serious allegations of player misconduct, including assaults and racial harassment of Black students by teammates. This decision follows a lawsuit filed by four former players and their families, highlighting the school district's alleged negligence in protecting its athletes. Stamps had recently completed his fourth season with the team, leading them to the State 4A playoffs, but his dismissal has sparked significant controversy. Superintendent Travis Hanson stated that Stamps was repeatedly made aware of the misconduct yet did not report it to the district, resulting in the termination of both his coaching and teaching contracts. Allegations included inappropriate use of massage guns during summer camps, which were reportedly filmed and circulated among students.

The school district reopened investigations into the incidents after the lawsuit, raising concerns regarding student safety. Stamps claimed he had spoken with players about the allegations and found no wrongdoing, a statement contradicted by documented reports. This situation underscores the necessity for robust policies and accountability measures in high school sports to protect student-athletes.