ollow-up story on Coach Jody Grooms of Augusta Georgia’s Lakeside High School. Click here for Part I.

Previously it was reported in the final game of the season on the last play of the game, Lakeside executed a trick play where one of the eleven players ran off the field during the play and was replaced by another player farther downfield in an attempt to complete a long, downfield pass play. The play failed when an Effingham player intercepted the ball.

But it did not end there. Effingham coaches in reviewing the game spotted the play and informed Lakeside and the Georgia High School Association. The video was placed on YouTube. GHSA was quick to act, fining the school $250 and placing the program under review. The school superintendent removed the coach from his position as athletic director and announced further punishment would follow.

In spite of the heat, some stood beside the coach. The Lakeside principal stated Coach Grooms would not be fired. His players and the head of the boosters club appeared at a school board meeting and verbalized their support. Parents came out in support of the embattled coach. In unscientific polls conducted in the community, support was equally divided on whether the coach should be fired or retained.

Continued...