Story
Boca Raton football coach Keith Byars under fire
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
by
Jeff Greer
Boca Raton football coach Keith Byars was in danger of losing his job Tuesday night after allegedly shoving a player on the sidelines during Friday night's game against Jupiter, several sources have told The Post.
The former Dolphins running back was supposed to meet with Boca Principal Geoff McKee on Tuesday evening to discuss his future with the school.
Sources said videotape of the game showed Byars, 47, who took over as Boca's coach in 2009, shoved quarterback Kevin Anderson in the chest with two hands during an outburst in the second quarter of the Bobcats' 26-19 loss to the Warriors.
McKee would not comment on the incident or what he planned to discuss with Byars, who did not return phone calls from The Post. Phone messages left with the school's athletics department were not returned.
Anderson, reached by phone Tuesday afternoon, declined to talk about the incident.
Byars, a former Ohio State All-America, is 14-11 in two-plus seasons as the Bobcats' coach. He was an assistant coach at Atlantic and Pope John Paul II before taking over at Boca.
He replaced Eddie Giersbrook, who was forced out amid a Florida High School Athletic Association investigation into Boca's football program.
Byars coached Boca to a 9-3 record and a win in the regional quarterfinals in his first season, but the Bobcats struggled to a 4-6 record last season and missed the playoffs.
Boca is 1-2 this season, with a win over rival West Boca and close losses to Atlantic and Jupiter.
Byars played for four NFL teams - Philadelphia, Miami, New England and the New York Jets - in 13 seasons and was a Pro Bowl selection in 1993, his first of four years with the Dolphins.
His son, Keith II, is a senior and the Bobcats' leading rusher. Byars is also studio analyst for WQAM-560's Miami Dolphins coverage.
Matt Porter contributed to this story.
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User Comments:
reason commented on September 20, 2011 at 5:26 p.m.: report abuse
The only reason this guy is coaching is because his son. He doen't seem to care about kids in general, and feels like if he coaches his son, because he was a prop football player, he could guide his path. No way should he be allowed to coach high school football after this deal and all the other crap last year. Who cares that he played pro ball, that should be more reason to have a cool head, and don't say kids have to be tuff. Ever seen Coach Smith do that after years and years of coaching st. thomas? No way Bobby Bowden at College? level never. Tony Dungy never. Fire that overrated coach and start fresh at Boca.
ITS ABOUT TIME!!!!! commented on September 20, 2011 at 5:40 p.m.: report abuse
THANK GOD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Matt Porter you are our families hero, you finally reported this story and hopefully we will get this team back on the right track. I hope our AD who is acting as the Head Coach now will be next. He is equally responsible for the demise of our team. The kids are worth it and we appreciate you sticking out your neck to get the truth out. You stood up for our kids hopefully Mckee will do the same GET HIM OUT of BHS!!!!! HE is not worthy.
Parent commented on September 20, 2011 at 5:49 p.m.: report abuse
Best Interests of the Children
Please simply do what is best for the children. Keith is a good person and he needs to take responsibility.
fired commented on September 20, 2011 at 5:58 p.m.: report abuse
I heard from a reliable source that he was fired in that meeting with the principal. If so, who takes over?
anonymous commented on September 20, 2011 at 6:06 p.m.: report abuse
I can't excuse what he did, nor do I know anything about the man personally. I will say this, it's certainly a bad move on his part and he should be reprimanded, perhaps fired. However, anyone can make a mistake, and I didn't see anywhere in the article that he has a history of doing this. Maybe make it two strikes and you're out and give him a chance to prove it was an isolated incident.
Boca Alum commented on September 20, 2011 at 6:24 p.m.: report abuse
The whole staff should be fired except for Coach Jack. He is great for the kids!
Teacher commented on September 20, 2011 at 7:37 p.m.: report abuse
I am a teacher at Boca High. If I shove a student, I get fired. It should be no different in this case.
its about time commented on September 20, 2011 at 7:44 p.m.: report abuse
bottom line...he should have been fired last year...he ruined my sons senior year of football...he is a self-centered and arrogant..pack up his office and get him OUT!!
anonymous commented on September 20, 2011 at 7:50 p.m.: report abuse
honestly coach byars is that type of person i dont think he meant to shove him as a way of punishment or yelling at him i think he was jus trying to pump him up and in the heat of the moment he may have push him a little too hard but as far as his future i do think he should be punished...fired? i dont think so jus my opinion
hey matt porter commented on September 20, 2011 at 7:51 p.m.: report abuse
matt, had a brief phone conversation with u today ,this is also what is wrong with some high school coaches and ADs. these coaches should feel honored to coach our kids not the other way around. the princible should not have a meeting, its on viedo GOOOOOOOD BYYYYYERS SOOOOOOOOOOOOO LONG. No questions asked. The princepal Should be watched on this one. step up do the right thing. for once someone DO THE RIGHT THING.
Cascade commented on September 20, 2011 at 7:53 p.m.: report abuse
Teacher, I agree with you 100%. I would be sued, in the private sector, if I ever spoke to my employees the way Byars and the AD speak to their players during the Saturday film session.
Ubolt32 commented on September 20, 2011 at 7:54 p.m.: report abuse
This is high school football. You put your hands on a kid you should be fired at a minimum. There is no lesson of toughness to be learned form this type of behavior, just public humiliation. He should be fired. You shouldn't get another chance to blow your top and possibly hurt someone's child.
TKAGrad commented on September 20, 2011 at 8:41 p.m.: report abuse
Fired for a shove?? Is this football or synchronized swimming? There has to be more to the story.
Football Parent commented on September 20, 2011 at 9:10 p.m.: report abuse
TKAGrad I agree there has to be more to the story. If Boca was undefeated Byars would be the best coach ever! His son is a senior so if he's not fired he will quit after this season anyway. Keith is a good person and I seriously doubt he intentionally tried to do anything more than try to pump the kid up. He that is without SIN cast the first stone. Yes, his method was inappropriate and he should be reprimanded. The punishment should fit the crime. It's the middle of the football season, so making the wrong decision can cause the team more damage. Best of Luck to the Boca football for the remaining season you're going to need it!!!!
Each1Teach1 commented on September 20, 2011 at 9:54 p.m.: report abuse
It amazes me, that everybody praised Mr.Byers when he initially applied for this job and now he's viewed as unworthy. Really, so what if his son is a Senior, if some of the naysayers had the opportunity to coach their kids they would do it in a heartbeat. Boca High School has benefited from Mr.Byers &now its just typical politics you want him out. I'm sorry he lost his cool, &I'm sure if he could change it.he would. Boca gets what Boca wants , so whether it's this incident or something or another fabrication of a rumor , he was gonna be ousted regardless. Coach Keith is a good person and often works as a Baseball Coach in Delray. He mentors those children and doesn't receive any compensation. My advice to him take ur talents to a place that will respect you and not only when ur winning! Best Wishes to you coach Keith,God is STILL good!
Bobcat Football commented on September 20, 2011 at 10:43 p.m.: report abuse
Coach Byars should not be fired for this. Coaches shove players all the time, I can't believe some of you people.
Jay -Rock commented on September 20, 2011 at 10:54 p.m.: report abuse
You all have two weeks to get it right ,because them Raiders are coming to town.
Bo Jangles commented on September 20, 2011 at 11:26 p.m.: report abuse
With all due respect, some of u people are morons!!! KEEP COACH BYARS
I know commented on September 20, 2011 at 11:45 p.m.: report abuse
i can say this as a former player under Byars, he was not a good coach every player hated him and he reaped all the glory from our district winning team that Coach Toe built. He was verbally abusive to everyone, change all our traditions and made anyone he didn't like feel like crap. He is not a good person and should have been fired last year, in fact he should have never been hired in the first place.
ungrateful commented on September 20, 2011 at 11:45 p.m.: report abuse
Coach Byars has given so much, including free Miami Dolphins apparel to the players, and this is how you treat him.
Seriously commented on September 20, 2011 at 11:49 p.m.: report abuse
Seriously Coach Toe gets fired for maybe recruiting a player and Byars get yelled at for hitting a kid?? I'm all about toughness but hitting a kid that's in highschool and having little reprocussions is ridiculous!!!
@ungrateful commented on September 21, 2011 at 12:01 a.m.: report abuse
ungrateful, I think you need to get your facts straight. He hasn't given anything to the program only to a select few. The cleats from the dolphins he gave, ya he only gave those to a select few that he deemed worthy of wearing Miami dolphin cleats. When the team won it's district a few years ago, the team wanted jackets (they took a vote) and he wanted a new watch. Guess which one they got? I'll give you a hint they got watches. Last year he told some seniors that they wouldn't walk on senior night and the booster club wanted to get the seniors a gift after the season for the annual banquet he said they didn't deserve anything. Oh ya he also makes the players do all their own recruiting he doesn't help anyone but his own son, in fact a scout came to his office to see film on David Bicknell and he just played his son's highlights over and over again until the scout left.
@UNGRATEFUL commented on September 21, 2011 at 1:27 a.m.: report abuse
The Miami Dolphins donate all their equipment from the players they cut. Byars did not purchase this used equipment. He did give it to some players who he deemed worthy. As for the verbal abuse it stops now! There is a bright side to this story, someone will now be able to wear the number 41 Jersey because anyone who deserves to wear a Bobcat Jersey is worthy. Let's Go Bobcats take back your team!
PkPrince commented on September 21, 2011 at 7:23 a.m.: report abuse
I'll Take Him In Pahokee Anyday!!!
Russ commented on September 21, 2011 at 7:26 a.m.: report abuse
Yo, he is Pahokee kind of guy. Great coaching outfits, lots of yelling, and screaming, and slapping kids.
PIP-Squeak commented on September 21, 2011 at 7:36 a.m.: report abuse
I know Byars has rub people the wrong way within the past couple of years he's been coaching at Boca High and his bold and stubborn way has finally caught up with him but honestly do you think a shoved to a player in a football game on the sideline is justified for firing a coach. Everybody that has watch and seen high school football for years know that there is alot more that goes on with football other than a shove. Not saying that he's right but we've seen worst. I ask myself this question and yes I'm going to say it, if that kid was any other color but white, will we be having this discussion right now? Get back at me and if this offends you, well welcome to the real world. "DEW"
West Boca Bulls Fan commented on September 21, 2011 at 7:49 a.m.: report abuse
What happened to freedom of speech in this country, my comment was neither racist or obscene, or in my opinion inappropriate, I guess when you tell the truth it rubs people the wrong way! Byars pulled my son from the National teams Senior Outback Bowl last year and instead played one of his Boca High Players who was not even on the roster at that position, at the very least he should have given the opportunity to the other rostered player at that position, but he chose not to. Let's see if you delete this Matt Porter! I for one am glad he is gone so he doesn't have the opportunity to coach another Senior Bowl game, he was a disgrace to that program! And I do hope that after he is gone they go back to their origianl helmets!
Rob commented on September 21, 2011 at 8:25 a.m.: report abuse
Truth is there are parents who are upset when their kids don't get playing time or don't make the team. They gladly vent at any chance they have to bad mouth the coach. This is true in any sport at any school. Keith Byars is an excellent coach. He is highly respected and admired for his knowledge of the sport and coaching ability. ANY school in this county would glady welcome him to coach. McKee is smart and knows better than to listen to loud mouth pushy parents.
WOW commented on September 21, 2011 at 8:29 a.m.: report abuse
A shove? you can't be serious welcome to Boca Raton Florida Byars please come work in the city of palm beach
Paul B commented on September 21, 2011 at 9:01 a.m.: report abuse
I've been saying it for 2 years. he's an egomaniac concerned about himself and his son. He constantly lies and makes promises to players, and doesnt deliver. He has taken the fun out of football for many kids, but parents wont stand up to him for fear of retribution.What he did is unexcusable, HE MUST GO!
Tell me why commented on September 21, 2011 at 9:02 a.m.: report abuse
The kid knows exactly what the coaches intent was until he tells his side of the story then a decision should be made we all know that it`s wrong to put your hand on anyone. lets wait and see what the kid has to say
Riley Richardson commented on September 21, 2011 at 9:10 a.m.: report abuse
Kids and Parents today are such pansies... when i played if a coach grabbed me or pounded me with force... I probably deserved it, and you can bet i didn't do it again. Coach Byars is old school... and is a great person.
Jim Bush commented on September 21, 2011 at 9:16 a.m.: report abuse
Every post here reeks of parents who think their kids are better than they are, this is what has happened to all of the sports teams in Boca. Boca use to have talent in all sports but parents think their kids are good, when they arent, and will go force the coach or athletic director. Also, why doesnt anyone put their real name on their comments instead of aliases?
Get Bobcat Pride Back commented on September 21, 2011 at 9:19 a.m.: report abuse
There is far more here than meets the eye that needs investigating. It's very telling that Byars has finally created his own demise. Thank goodness so the kids (including his child) don't suffer any longer. For the past few years many things have been purposely overlooked, including illegal transfers, quitting of many kids who love football/Boca High, total berating of players, blatant bullying and nepotism/unfairness. Just because someone can play the game doesn't mean he can coach it. Boca High needs a motivator who can teach the kids how the game of football translates into real life. Being a bully is not the kind of role model our kids need. Come on, McKee, let's not sweep another situation under the rug for your own benefit. Do the right thing.
Boca- teach your kids to be men! commented on September 21, 2011 at 9:30 a.m.: report abuse
Coach Byars is a great coach and person off the field. @Boca Alum: the whole coaching staff?? really do you know any of them besides Urbanak?? I think not. YOUR ALUMI NOT CURRENT so how would you know how any of the coaches coach. @its about time. Instead of you worrying about your kid's senior football season and saying it was "ruined" why werent you encouraging your kid to get into school acdemically??? @ all the Byars haters: your main grouge against him is because his kid is a player (an true athlete at that) and your whole thing is he is there for his kid. GROWN THE HECK UP! I'm sure you had nothing to say when your kid was reaping the benefits of playing for the Bobcats and being taken to Dolphins game by Byars. @ Boca parents in general: its really sad to think you want your boy to grow up into a PANSY! Why not make him into a man. You think paying there way into things makes him into a man??NOT! Some of the kids are spoiled rotten brats. Take your kid to any other school and you might just get a reality check. He gave him a shove, he didnt punch him or hit him as some are saying. was it right as for in the force, mayb not but it was clear his intensions was not to hurt the kid. The kid was fine after it happen!
Ron Ream commented on September 21, 2011 at 9:40 a.m.: report abuse
I just don't understand what all this hubbub is about.......it's no big deal.
"Togethor We Will" commented on September 21, 2011 at 10:05 a.m.: report abuse
First and for most,i'd like to say i don't know Coach Byars but he was a great football player does that make him a coach probably not, let's face it most ex-NFL players dont turn out to be great coaches or even decent ones. He did win the district two years ago with Coach Toe players and let's not forget Ed Sullivan wasn't a Keith Byars guy he was there before Byars even got the job, so if you ask me bring back the old staff Coach Toe,Coach Hanley,Coach P,Coach Rowe,Coach Ivy, Keep Coach Urbernack,Sutton and Bully let the rest of those bums go and PUT THE STRIPES BACK ON THE HELMENTS........
Alumni Player and Players Parent commented on September 21, 2011 at 10:16 a.m.: report abuse
For any of you who do not know, Bobcat Football is an awesome tradition that will survive!!! Byars did push our QB Friday Night, it was not a pat, a bump or a shove, It was done with such force as he was screaming at him after throwing his clipboard and headseat to the ground. He basically two handed punched him in the chest with the such force I am shocked the Kid stayed on his feet. The Bobcat fans, Parents, Students, and Spectators booed and quite frankly I wanted to Jump the Fence and haul him away to Crazy Town... Coach Byars denied, lied or whatever you want to call it. If he would have admitted he made a mistake we would not be having this thread! Check that he would have eventually done something else to someone else's Child. He did not discriminate on the Childs Color as some of you are claiming. Whether the Player was red, yellow, black, or white,, he bullied them all!!!!! Check that again, a few/couple have never been publicly humiliated, bullied, or have been shamed in to changing schools. We have lost several very talented Players and will have to rebuild because of Players who flat out would not come to our School because of Byars. I am so glad the QB's family backed him up as he is a Child not yet a Man... I am sure Byars was as good as he says he was playing football. Another thing I am certain of is he has no business Coaching Children!
Where's the follow-up? commented on September 21, 2011 at 11:14 a.m.: report abuse
Story says meeting was held Tuesday night. It's Wednesday. Was Byars fired or not?
Hear ye hear ye commented on September 21, 2011 at 11:22 a.m.: report abuse
All the butt kissers are the only protecters of Byars he is a classless pro because of what he has done in high school football. He is teaching his son that it's not what you know it's who you know. Too bad, but Boca will be back I am sure. Hopefully he is gone and take the kid with ya. The kid is a prema and not that good, because of no work ethic.
Not Just Another Coach commented on September 21, 2011 at 11:46 a.m.: report abuse
Does anyone really think Byars would stick around after the 2011 season? 14-11. Keith Jr. to a MAC school. Regardless of whether Boca fires him, he resigns or he finishes out the season after a 2 game suspension, it is time to look forward. Time and time again, I look back to when I moved here as a once high profile coach that reassigned myself to a new career. I often followed Boca High and Coach Toe. I realize everyone looks at the Sullivan fiasco and judges the him on that aspect. Let's not forget Sullivan attended no less than 3 high schools I am aware of, so if recruiting occurred did it happen at PV, too? Coach Toe bolstered the teams with a strict discipline in the classroom, weightroom and on the field. I was so impressed by his coaching style that I eventually ventured into Boca High to introduce myself and saw the vast network he established with numerous college coaches, former players and community members. While the FHSAA investigated, BRCHS took the direction to hire another coach in his place. Since he left the program has completely changed its look from the traditional 'Wings' to the look of the Ohio University Bobcats brought upon by the ego of its leader. It's time to move on and give Coach Toe another chance. I know he learned from any mistakes he made and perhaps the assistants he surrounded himself with that may have ultimately lead to his demise as well. McKee you won't find a guy who bleeds Blue and Yellow like this guy and has and will be a staple in the Boca community for years to come. Who am I? Just a retired coach who knows that discipline will win games, character will build communities and second chances will bring titles the right way.
Wellington Football Fan commented on September 21, 2011 at 11:50 a.m.: report abuse
Coach Byers please come to Wellington next year and coach our talent. WE havent had a football program for 10 years. We used to be a force but our talent goes elsewhere and we are left with a handful of descent players who are soft at best.
Two hands to the chest on a regular basis is exactly what our kids need. It might get their attention. While you are there you can take two hands to the chest of our current coaching staff to wake them up as well.
I am of course just kidding and I think that football coaches invest a tremendous amount of emotion in their players and programs and do many things out of the box to get their point across.
Keith Byers is a stud and alway will be!!!
keeping it real commented on September 21, 2011 at 12:40 p.m.: report abuse
man this is old school coaching aint nothing wrong with a lil shoving, in your face yelling, etc. Where im from thats how our coaches did back in those days. see thats the problem with alot of you parents now so scared of your children or better yet dont dicipline your kids. Our society has come to this thing with the youth now having ADHD and what ever you call it. I never heard of such thing growing up, but i remeber my parents being parents and not being friends and they encouraged us when we did right but whooped our butts when we were wrong. I dont know Coach Byars but im sure his intent was not to harm the kid. But the way some of you speak about K.ByarsII it seems if his daddy was the abusive type which alot of you are making him out to be then it should show with his own kid. I also agree with several of the previous comments when this happens in a URBAN area school(perdominately black) a big deal is not made of it. Whether you like it or not Color plays a big part in or world today as it did years ago. So dont be quick to say oh there you go pulling the race card again because racism is alive and well here in AMERICA . Most of the parents complaining kids are probably on the bench or got cut because they are soft like their parents. I saw coach Byars at a Under Armor Camp a year ago with more than just his son he had a few other players from his team. Coach Byars go Coach where you parents will appreciate you.
its about time commented on September 21, 2011 at 12:56 p.m.: report abuse
the bottom line is..Byars has been fired..by the way, its not a white/black situation, the black parents hate him as much, if not more than the white parents..bye coach..too late for my son, you manged to ruin his senior year..KARMA!!!!
bigdawg61 commented on September 21, 2011 at 1:07 p.m.: report abuse
all these posts because a player was shoved by his coach? Give me a break!
BOCA BOCA commented on September 21, 2011 at 1:26 p.m.: report abuse
MY KID WILL NOT BE GOING TO A BOCA SCHOOL BECAUSE THE PARENTS AND KIDS ARE BETTER THAN MY TWO SONS AT EVERYTHING. LOL
BOCA HOLE IN HEAD commented on September 21, 2011 at 1:35 p.m.: report abuse
I REMEMBER PARENTS COMPLAINING ABOUT WEST BOCA BASEBALL COACH LAST YEAR AND THEY ONE THE WHOLE THING
I AM SURE THEIR KID WAS SITTING ON THE BENCH BUT WEARS HIS RING EVERYDAY EVERYWHERE
Been needed a new Coach commented on September 21, 2011 at 2:13 p.m.: report abuse
Keith has been for his son all along. Thats the only reason why he is at Boca High. I remember when he was at the Boca Jets. Wanting his son to run every position on the field just becuase he keith byars. My opinion i don't think he should be coaching anyone. I say bring back Coach Hughes he ran a great offense! This school needs a new start! I don't think its a racial thing just a bad coaching thing.
bobcat 2000 commented on September 21, 2011 at 3:10 p.m.: report abuse
Take a look at best parts of the staffs over last 10 years and try to combine the best parts of each staff. This includes, OC, DC, ST, position, JV, and freshman. Put that together and its glory time for the bobcats.
@been commented on September 21, 2011 at 3:26 p.m.: report abuse
Hughes is in Kansas...Independence CC....good luck with that
Bobcat Fan09 commented on September 21, 2011 at 5:01 p.m.: report abuse
It is the end of the "All about Byers Era"! I read this on the Competitive Advantage web page about sports psychology.
In old school coaching there is a dictatorial style adopted by the coach, a "my way or the highway" kind of approach. The individual takes on a hard-ass demeanor and doesn't hesitate to yell and scream at or publicly embarrass anyone who fails to toe the line. These kinds of coaches believe that their position of authority (rather than who they are as a person) should automatically command respect and they teach using fear.
This school of coaching mistakenly believes that their approach is necessary to instill mental toughness in their athletes. They're flat out wrong! It actually does the exact opposite!
Not only did Byers coach by intimidation and bulling his players, he also only highlighted his son rather than coaching, guiding and supporting the entire team. Go through the past two years of news articles on the team, Byers Jr is highlighted in each and everyone very little on any of the other players. So what in fact did he do for the promotion of the players? How many college's did he contact for his players last year? Why were the stat's on each and every player NOT UPDATED OR INPUT into the system to give information to the schools that may prospect Boca High Players? High School Coaches play a key roll in molding players, physically,educationally, mentally and socially getting them ready for advancement into college football if that is what their goal is. No one player makes a team! When you have a team handed to you from a previous coach such as Coach Giersbrook who not only took the time to positively motivate kids to do better on and off the field, as well as helping each and every player on his team get the chance to shine by doing everything in his power to have them seen by college scouts. Each and every player under his guidance came out a winner! Yet in one fail swoop that was taken from the Football Program at Boca High because it was rumored he was scouting players. Rumor playing the key phrase here. NEVER PROVEN! Yet we have people defending Byers actions of physically abusing his players by shoving, pushing or touching a player in an inappropriate manor. What was to think about as far as dismissing Byers as a coach from this school???!!! Who is protecting our children???
In saying that Byers may have done well in the NFL, he may be an incredible player shining in his own time, but he has a lot to learn about the development of our young athletes. I have seen first hand his temper flair and negative attitude overcome any spirit and or commodore the Bobcat team may have had over the last few years. Parent's complained and plead with the school to make changes with no avail.
As for those of you who are pulling the "Race Card" seriously this is an injustice to Kevin Anderson to declare that it is ok that a (you are saying it not me) "Black Man" can push, shove or hit a "White Child" I do not care if it was a "White Coach and a White Child or a Black Coach and a Black Child or a White Coach and a White Child". " NO ADULT IN A TEACHING OR COACHING POSITION SHOULD EVER LAY A HAND ON A STUDENT/CHILD". This is not about Race this is about ABUSE OF POSITION! Don't they teach our children in school "YOU DO NOT LAY YOUR HANDS ON ANYONE ELSE"! I believe it is in the Student Handbooks that are passed out each and every year.
We teach our children "There are Consequences for our Actions!" NO ONE IS THE EXCEPTION! I DON'T CARE WHAT GENDER, RACE, OR NATIONALITY YOU ARE!"
In my opinion, as obviously all the remarks on here are opinion only, the Boca High football team is better off looking for a coach who is interested in coaching the "Entire Team and being a Mentor to ALL THE BOYS", developing each child's skills both on and off the field!
Good Luck to the team! I hope you boys get the coaching staff you deserve and each and every one of you are successful with the paths you decide to follow this year and those to come.
@ungrateful commented on September 21, 2011 at 5:30 p.m.: report abuse
As far as your assessment of the Dolphins Football apparel, I know for a fact as I picked up those items in MY CAR with through CONTACTS that there Not BYERES was more than enough to give each and every player on that team and some for the JV team gloves and cleats! Now for the real point at hand, WHO GOT THE EQUIPMENT DONATED BY THE DOLPHINS??? Did every child on the team have an opportunity to pick out what he needed and take a pair of shoes and gloves... The REAL ANSWER: NO... ONLY A SELECT FEW GOT ANYTHING. SO tell me what happen to the rest of the donated shoes and gloves?????
They disappeared....So are you using this as your strong point as to how great he was for the team... Know your facts before you make statements...
Parent commented on September 21, 2011 at 7:23 p.m.: report abuse
FYI... Jackie Walsh that was on the news may be a parent of students at the school, but not a parent of a football player and has no idea what that program went through. To understand what it is like, you have to live it. Too bad the parents and kids are too afraid to speak up because they're afraid they'll get penalized.... but if you think about it, they're not speaking up to try to save him either. This isn't the first incident with this man... but now it's so public, they can't hide this one under the rug.
of knowledge commented on September 21, 2011 at 8:40 p.m.: report abuse
Keith Byars has a good heart! Kevin is a GREAT kid. Coach made a big mistake and maybe that mistake -well he should resign. But the rest of the crap from parents is that crap. He has a big heart - how many kids were given a 2nd 3rd 4th chance and not just the players (think Lonnie). He made mistakes handling his son but is not nearly as negative as the now AD.He is ALL SHOW and lazy! And to suggest bring Toe back - he cheated !!!!! He doesnt know foootball!!! There are people out there that would be good for the Boca program (make people happy and put those expensive wings on the helmets) and deal with parents of kids who dont play (the kid is ok with being on the team) but Mom and Dad cannt handle. But dont lose doing this just because your talent level is FAR less than many teams in area. And Jack??? Nice guy doesnt know a thing about coaching lbs. The shoes -all on the varsity were offed and few excepted!!! Dont know about JVs. Glad to be done around BRCHS.
Ric-Flair commented on September 21, 2011 at 11:27 p.m.: report abuse
I am a HS coach. Shoving a kid in anger in front of the home team fans is a death sentence for any coach in this day and time. I feel bad for Byars. I am sure he did not mean for this to happen.
Well Said Bobcat Fan09 commented on September 21, 2011 at 11:39 p.m.: report abuse
Great statement Bobcat Fan09. As for( of knowledge )you obviously have none... With the exception of Kevin being a Great Kid and Keith Byars may have a good heart but it has been clouded with greed, contempt, and bias. None of what the Parents have said is crap believe me I am one. My Son has played for all 4 years and my dislike for Coach Byars was never based on him as a person. My opinion of him has been from personal experiences and witnessing his unsportsmanlike conduct as a Coach. He has verbally abused and bullyied several Players. I am bitter and perplexed the other Coaches never stood up for these kids. Some of them even took part in the bullying,berating, and humiliation. They let Byars bully them as well. People say our boys should "Man UP" why didn't these grown men do it as an example? Why didn't they go to administration and speak up? As for Coach Toe- dig a little deeper for the real truth it may finally surface. He loved every Player like they were his own flesh and blood . He was respected and still is respected by every student he teaches, Players present, and past and is loved by many of us Parents who dream of having him back to finish out our son's final year! Cheated not really he had a kid who wanted nothing more than to play ball for a stand up guy like him! PV got jealous they started all this drama and turned that Man's life upside down. He did not do the final paperwork on that transfer, he did not sign those affadavits, he did not give the final approval. He merely had what most of today's Coach's do not and that is RESPECT for his players. He asked them to work hard in class and on the field they did it gladly. He still is at Boca High and has watched this team he has loved since he was a little boy be ripped apart and torn to shreds. Some say he doesn't know how to Coach that may or may not be true. I know one thing for sure, he knows how to get players to play to the best of their ability, he earned and demanded excellence on and off the field, and he knows how to be a great mentor and that is what our youth really do need in todays world!!! I even think he would allow his Coaching staff to Coach now that is a win win for everyone. Coach Byars and his family are in our Prayers I know he is going to need them in the next few weeks!
A BLACK MAD PARENT!!! commented on September 21, 2011 at 11:42 p.m.: report abuse
All I have to say is "FIRE" Keith Byars and bring back the best coach Boca High School every had. People are making this a race thing because Byars is black. I am black and I witness many of Keith Byars unprofessional, nasty, selfish behaviors, including mistreating many of the kids. He is so nasty, he removed all the kids that parent complaint about his behavior to Dr. McKee and the Palm Beach County School board from senior pictures (Football Team) and videos. He stopped giving them playing time in games. He gave some kids free Boca High T-shirts and other s had to pay. What Monster would do that to kids during their senior year? You people are stating parents are upset because their kids were not good enough to play or couldn't play well. “SHAME ON YOU AS A PARENT OR PERSON.” What makes you think that? Is it because your child played? As a teacher and mother, if my students were failing in class, I would do whatever necessary to tutor them one on one because it reflects me as a teacher; therefore, I feel the same way about Byars and his coaching. He gave a NEWS statement that parents hate him because their kids weren’t good enough to play. WOW!!! In all the years of my son football, I never once heard or saw a coach make a statement in the NEW PAPER that kids are not good enough to play. Several students who were star players parent withdraw them from Boca Raton High School because of the horrible coach, arrogant, nasty and selfish attitude Byars has. I guess those kids parents were haters too? NOT!! All of the kids who left are doing well at their new high school and the ones who went off to college too. If the News wants to know more about all of the complaints against Byars, contact Palm Beach County School Board Investigator. That being said, Keith Byars really has no room to dislike or treat any one wrong. God is already dealing with him. He is a broke JOKE! GET RID OF NASTY BYARS AND HIGHER SOMEONE ELSE OR USE ONE OF THE COACHES YOU ALREADY HAVE AS AN ASSISTANT….DR. MCKEE you made a big mistake by hiring BYARS. You are afraid to fire him because he is BLACK. Well you are less than a man to let a coach who abuse children coach at your school!!! You let Coach Toe go because of mishandling money so you say; however, you are allowing a child abuser to coach at your school. “YOU REAP WHAT YOU SOW!” Keith Byars I always knew if I let God deal with you, He will bring your nasty unprofessional behavior out to the public eyes. Your secret is out of the hat!!!! NOW THE JOKE IS ON YOU!!
A BLACK MAD PARENT!!! commented on September 21, 2011 at 11:50 p.m.: report abuse
Correction: HIRE!!!
Sylvia Gillion-Robinson commented on September 22, 2011 at 12:33 a.m.: report abuse
ATTENTION: Of Knowledge (commented on September 21, 2011 at 8:40 p.m.) I just received a call that you posted my son Lonnie's name on this Blog. First of all, you should not use the name Knowledge when you have none. You can't spell and your post makes no sense. Secondly, don't hide behind the fake name. I am letting you know who I am. My son is doing great in college and didn't and never would need Keith Byars. I will never state Byars ruined my son's life. He just made him stronger as a young man being mistreated by a Full grown-old fart who has no respect for children, including his own. And for you to say, (think Lonnie); learn how to spell and use proper grammar before speaking ill about anyone. As a parent who witness both coaches, Byars and Toe (Eddie). Coach Toe was great for the kids. He cared about their education and future. He respected the kids and their parents. He never once degraded or mistreated any of the students or their parents. Everyone was treated equally, BLACK & WHITE. You guys really don't want my opinion about Byars. He isn't a man. Real men help lift young men self-esteem up, not down. See I won't act ignorant like him. My son has a good life and Keith Byars or anyone else can make his life less, even if he didn't play Lonnie. Lonnie didn't care about football. He just love the idea of been on a team...He was treated very well by coach Toe. Furthermore, I don't care what any of you say because Lonnie first two years as a football player was great for him. And the reason why I volunteered all the games and other activities for the football team because Coach Toe was so respectful to the kids and parents. Now run and tell Byars that!!! To the above post, yes, I was one of the parents who were called by investigators about Byars behavior. I have nothing to hide because what you do in the dark comes to the light. Dr. McKee and no one else can say I came into their office or contact anyone about Byars behavior. He will tell you that I will call him personally and address my concerns about his unprofessional behavior towards my son. Like I told Byars before, when you dig one whole for my son, dig two for yourself. Parents you guys are wrong for making remarks about other parents kids playing status or performance. You better understand that God don’t like ugly. If your child is a great athlete, thank God for that. You have know right low-rating someone else child. You never know what might happen to yours. I don’t have to hide behind fake names because who is Byars? A USE TO BE! Byars tried to ruin my son life….Unfortunately, I know a Man who sits high and looks low. My baby is truly blessed and no Devil can stop what God has for him. To the mad black parent, keep praying because God is listening… Good night people who hide behind names. Lonnie is Byars’s free and living a good life.
Riviera Beach commented on September 22, 2011 at 9:03 a.m.: report abuse
Don't know or pretend to know what is going on at Boca High. However, if all they have is Byars pushing a player, that is not enough to dismiss the man. Maybe Byars is needed in a rougher area than Boca. When I played (which was late 90's) my coaches grabbed us by the facemask, pushed us, and even punched a few players who had helmits on. This IS FOOTBALL!!! What do you think goes on in college? I remember a documentary on Northwestern Bulls football a few years back. One of the coaches actually fought a player who was out of line. Boca people, Belle Glade and Pahokee are laughing at this. Push a player? Really?
Vernon (Ocala) commented on September 22, 2011 at 9:18 a.m.: report abuse
Getting fired for pushing a kid that's sad! Not pushing him down or punching him etc......to the moms out there High School Football coach's say bad words. grab kids by the facemask even push them. It's not worth taking a guys career. We should fire the guy that limit water breaks or doesnt inform kids on the academic requirements for college........
cds commented on September 22, 2011 at 10:10 a.m.: report abuse
What he did does not show alot of class. As a head coach people look up to you and respect you for taking on a very diffucult job. Nothing looks worse than a coach loosing his cool from the stands, on tv etc. Kids can be coached without using vulgarity and being pushed and shoved. Lead by example. Watch Mark Richt on Saturdays.
@cds commented on September 22, 2011 at 10:51 a.m.: report abuse
Well Said
f3r32 commented on September 22, 2011 at 11:32 a.m.: report abuse
kids sitting bench = parents bashing coach always especially in boca raton fl
sad your kid is just not good enought to play that is the facts
set a better example commented on September 22, 2011 at 5:20 p.m.: report abuse
As a 21 year old I find it disgusting how hateful and immature some people my parents age are acting on an anonymous blog. I'm sure some of you may have good reason to not like Coach Byars, but ranting hateful things about him is unnecessary. Especially when you are addressing how he may have bullied players, you are doing the same thing by badmouthing him here. Regardless of whether he shoved a player or not he is going through a difficult time possibly loosing his job. During such a hard time economically for people all around you should feel sorry for him instead of rejoicing in someone else's misery. Once again Boca High and Boca Raton in general are being shown in a bad light mostly by you parents writing negative things about the Boca High coaching staff and causing unwarranted scrutiny. It should have been taken care of silently instead of causing such dramatic public attention. I think you should be mindful of what you say, as your children may be reading this site. You are setting just as bad of an example on this blog as you accuse Coach Byars of doing on the field.
It's not just Keith commented on September 22, 2011 at 9:47 p.m.: report abuse
My son plays in a youth league where the coach is extremely verbally abusive to the 10-11 year olds. I've lodged a complaint with the league but they say they can't take any action without proof, but they will be watching. The other parents (except one) are all too chicken to speak up, even they confirm my opinion at practices and games. I stayed away from kid's practice tonight and watched the other teams instead and saw another coach push what had to be an 8-9 year old fairly violently. At least the other coaches forced him to calm down and apologize, which should always be the case.
Anyways this is an epidemic in youth sports. The leagues need to do a better job policing and educating their coaches in what is considered abuse and they should take a no tolerance approach. Those on the edge should be forced to take additional classes in anger management. If things don't improve in my child's league, then football coach abuse will likely be all over the papers again.
At the very least every youth league should use this episode as a reason to immediately communicate with all coaches all their responsbilities in handling these kids.
Margaret bell commented on September 26, 2011 at 7:35 p.m.: report abuse
This is pretty good! You all erased everything I had to say in retaliation to all of the bad and negative things that these people have said on this comment board! I guess you would have left my comments if I was bad mouthing Keith too huh??? This is a sick world! Media and all!! I'm sure someone flagged what I had to say but I damn sure hope someone read it first! Hope that someone was Sylvia!! Maybe I will say what I have to say a little differently....ok...lets see...to sum it up...the negative people, the ones with nothing good to say ARE haters indeed!!! It's called jealousy! Straight and plain!!! I'm sorry that some of these kids are tender and lazy...too lazy to take the game serious enough to want to be the best! I applaud Keith for trying to make that team the best that it could be! He coached with passion and heart!!! They gave him crap back in return, then turned around and backstabbed him! Oooo I wish I could express myself like I want too...yep you guessed it for those of you who didn't...I'm the mother of Keith's two beautiful kids! So not only are you trying unjustly destroy Keith, but you are showing my children how cruel and stupid parents can actually be...thanks...I will say this, I have been with this man for over 20 years and the one that the negative comments are speaking of...well I don't know who that is because that's not the man I've lived with for all those years...sorry. Oh yes...also just for your information...most of you are just bitter parents!
JUST SAYING commented on September 26, 2011 at 10:30 p.m.: report abuse
I CAN'T BELIEVE A WEEK LATER,PEOPLE ARE STILL BAD MOUTHING BYARS,FOR GOD SAKE LEAVE THIS MAN ALONE...IT IS BAD ENOUGH HE IS WITHOUT AN JOB!!!! SINCE WHEN DO WE ALL CELEBRATE WHEN A PERSON LOSES HIS JOB??? HAVE SOME CLASS...IF BYARS,MISTREATED ANY KIDS AT ANY TIME, HE WILL HAVE TO ANSWER TO GOD !!!! WHO ARE WE TO JUDGE HIM...NO MATTER HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT HIM YOU SHOULD LEAVE HIS KID OUT OF THE PICTURE..IT 'S JUST WRONG PERIOD.....GOOD LUCK TO THE ENTIRE BYARS FAMILY !!!!! KEEP YOUR HEADS UP...
@Margaret Bell commented on September 26, 2011 at 11:02 p.m.: report abuse
Your post was erased because it was viewed as a tasteless message,coming from a parent who claims to be a Christian. If you read the rules it simply states that you will be deleted if you post obscene messages meaning "PROFANITY" & threats. How can you tell someone to go to straight to hell ,ranting and raving like a complete lunatic and be respected ? These post are meant to be based upon one's opinon and clearly you have yours but please keep it in good taste. It's not fair that the kids are subjected to parents ignorance and trash, let alone one who chooses to refrain from being anonymous. I think it's embarassing to say the least that a 50 plus yr old woman would find time to entertain a blog to prove a point. Keith was fired based upon the schools ruling, he did this to himself with his decision he made by violating a school's policy. Now he must face the consequence. "TERMINATION". Allow your family to heal and leave this matter alone. Coach Byars is being smart by keeping slient perhaps you should follow suite.
margaret bell commented on September 27, 2011 at 12:30 p.m.: report abuse
Nope....no can do... whoever you are....and for your information...get your facts right! I'm not 50 anything! LOL!! And no...he was unjustly fired smart ass! Wow....you all say whatever the hell you want to say....and so shall I! And furthermore...Im not looking for your respect...don't need it to do nor be who I am....thanks anyway Hun! :)
Hope you all have a ball with this mess because me and my family have moved on! maybe everyone else should too. I have spoken my peace, I meant every word of it and now I am done with it!.....NEXT!
Anon commented on November 12, 2011 at 10:21 p.m.: report abuse
I think they took it way to far, I mean he shouldn't have pushed Kevin Anderson but that's not a reason to get fired when he was such a good coach, don't get me wrong what he did is very wrong but I think Kevin and his parents over reacted
SYLVIA GILLION-ROBINSON commented on November 22, 2011 at 2:57 p.m.: report abuse
TO: MARGARET BELL: First of all, I didn't flag you and really don't even know what comment you made. I just read this today again since my last comment. I AM FULLY GROWN AND DO NOT NEED TO HIDE BEHIND A COMPUTER!!! If you said something about me, it is okay with me because you and no one else pays my bills, nor do you make my day!!! FURTHERMORE SISTER, whatever I had to say about Keith Byars, I said it openly. He knew exactly how I felt about him. It is not a secret. Now, I will end this like I ended my last conversation with Keith (aka Coach Byars)... NO WEAPON FORMED AGAINST ME OR MY CHILD SHALL PROSPER....WHEN YOU HAVE KIDS AND YOU DIG A HOLE FOR SOMEONE ELSE KID, DIG TWO MORE!! I AM FAR FROM A HATER. I ADDRESSED MY OPINION AND FEELING ABOUT HIM JUST LIKE I WOULD HAVE DONE ABOUT ANYONE ELSE....YOU KNOW ME AND MY PHONE NUMBER. IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY, CALL: 561-981-6129....I Am Waiting And We Can Handle This Like Women; At Least I Know I Am One. Do Need To Use Bad Language To Express Myself. I AM BLESSED AND HIGHLY FAVORED!!!! RUN AND TELL THAT!!!
Sylvia Gillion-Robinson commented on November 22, 2011 at 3:06 p.m.: report abuse
CORRECTION: DON'T NEED .......
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