Marist Catholic High School in Eugene, Oregon, fired head varsity football coach Zach Loboy following a 63-0 victory over Cottage Grove that ended at halftime, a decision school officials linked to the program’s conduct during the game.

The Spartans continued scoring throughout the first half and attempted at least two onside kicks, including one while leading 57-0. The game was stopped before the second half, with athletic officials from both schools and the Lane County Football Association commissioner agreeing to end the contest.

Marist did not initially provide a detailed explanation for Loboy’s dismissal. However, Mid-Major Media reported that the decision was believed to be connected to the team running up the score in a manner that allegedly violated the school’s code of conduct.

Cottage Grove athletic director Garrett Bridgens said the early ending was not a forfeit or a decision by the players and coaches to stop competing. Instead, officials worked together to determine what was best for the students, fans and everyone involved.

Marist athletic director Rick Gardner said Loboy’s conduct during the game did not reflect the school’s mission or its expectations for treating opponents.

“Our athletic program tries to adhere to the mission and the values of Marist Catholic High School,” Gardner said. “In this particular case, we definitely fell short.”

Principal Bob Fraley informed parents and guardians that Loboy’s removal was effective immediately. The school named Jake Lowther, who joined the football staff this year after previously serving as a varsity assistant coach at Cascade High School, as interim head coach for the remainder of the season.

Fraley acknowledged that making a coaching change midseason could be difficult for players and families, while emphasizing that the school’s priorities were supporting its student-athletes, maintaining a positive team environment and finishing the season strongly.

The decision comes as Cottage Grove struggles through a difficult season. The team entered the matchup with a 1-5 record and had been outscored 206-36 across its previous five losses.

The incident has renewed debate over sportsmanship in high school athletics, particularly how coaches should balance competitive success with respect for opponents when a game becomes increasingly one-sided.