Burlington Football Coach Accused of Inappropriate Verbal Conduct Towards Players

BURLINGTON, MA — Burlington High School's varsity football coach has been placed on administrative leave during an investigation into allegations of inappropriate verbal conduct towards players.

The school district announced Wednesday that head coach Shawn Maguire would be placed on paid administrative leave following allegations of "verbal misconduct towards players by the coach." The district indicated that it had received allegations earlier this week.

"I understand that there may be many questions, and I want to thank our community members for their patience and support while this investigation is underway," Superintendent of Schools Dr. Eric Conti said in a statement. "The Burlington Public Schools is a safe and welcoming educational community, and we take any allegations of inappropriate verbal actions or behavior seriously."

The school department stated that it is "unable to comment further at this time."

The reigns the football team will be taken over by interim head coach George Balian, who told Burlington Cable Access Television that the had "no comment" about the allegations surrounding Maguire.

He also added that the team is focused on its current game against Stoneham.

Check back with Patch for updates.