Youth Football Coach Arrested for Allegedly Pushing 7-Year-Old from Opposing Team

A now-former assistant football coach in Connecticut was arrested and charged with allegedly pushing a child from the opposing team.

On Sunday, Sept. 21, 38-year-old Daniel Fazio of New Milford was charged with disorderly conduct, risk of injury to a minor and second-degree breach of peace, the Hartford Courant reported, citing Lt. Katherine M. Relyea of the New Milford Police Department.

The incident involved a 7-year-old and happened during a game earlier that day between the New Milford Bulls and the Water-Oak Youth football teams, WFSB reported. 

PEOPLE reached out to the New Milford Police Department for comment.

“The New Milford Bulls organization does not condone the recent behavior displayed by our former Assistant Coach. The behavior of one individual is not representative of the sentiments, moral compass or values of the entirety of the program,” the team said in a statement.

“We are actively investigating and addressing the situation in accordance with our New Milford Bulls Board Bylaws and Code of Conduct and will cooperate with law enforcement with whatever is needed. We are committed to taking appropriate steps to ensure accountability and maintain a safe, respectful environment for all our athletes and families,” the team added.

The football organization also said it was “deeply disturbed by the actions that transpired” by Fazio, adding, “We are deeply sorry to the children that were affected.”

On Monday, Sept. 22, the team shared a follow-up statement expressing support for authorities’ investigation, making it “very clear that we promote and encourage fans, parents and coaches to follow proper reporting procedures if there are any issues with activities occurring on the field.” 

According to the organization, in the case that an incident arises, complaints must be filed with the head coach, the commissioner or the president of the program.

Next would be an on-field investigation to look into the alleged behavior and handle it through the proper channels.

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“At no time is a parent or fan to take matters into their own hands. In no way was the child on Water-Oaks 7U team the aggressor in that situation; he was the victim. At the end of the day, these are children participating in a youth football and cheer program,” the team said. 

The New Milford Bulls concluded, “The proper procedures and protocols need to play out so administrators and coaches can correct the alleged behavior, if deemed necessary. We will continue to educate our children about sportsmanship and the rules of the game itself in a productive, proactive and positive manner.”

Fazio posted a $20,000 bond and is scheduled to appear in court on Oct. 2, WFSB reported.