Footage Shows Coach of High School Girls Basketball Team Attacking Spectator

A Virginia high school basketball coach has landed himself in hot water after he was captured on video launching himself at a spectator in the stands.

A basketball as seen on a high school basketball court
Getty

Image via Getty

A basketball as seen on a high school basketball court

A Virginia high school basketball coach has landed himself in hot water after he was captured on video attacking a spectator during a recent game.

As reported by TMZ, the incident took place during Richland’s game against Wise Central on Feb. 23. Richland went on to lose 54-51.

During a break in the play, Richland coach Tom Rife was seen shoving a man seated behind the team’s bench. The below clip circulating on social media captures Rife grabbing him the man by the collar and throwing him down in his seat. 

Referees quickly moved in to break up the fracas, as spectators looked on in disbelief. 

Tazewell County Public Schools superintendent Dr. Christopher Stacy said in a statement that the district has launched an investigation into the altercation.

“While we do not condone any misconduct from our coaches or spectators at this time we are still investigating the actions of all parties involved,” Stacy stated. 

See another clip of the incident in the tweet below.

Latest in Sports