Rumson-Fair Haven Regional Coach Bryan Batchler celebrates with his team after they won their third straight state sectional football championship earlier this month. (Image courtesy of Shore Sports Zone)
By JOHN T. WARD
Rumson-Fair Haven Regional football coach Bryan Batchler has been placed on administrative leave from his job, redbankgreen has learned.
Batchler, who led the Bulldogs to their third consecutive state sectional title with a win over Red Bank Regional on December 5, was placed on leave by Superintendent Pete Righi on December 14, Righi confirmed Wednesday morning. Righi declined to say what prompted the suspension or provide any details about the situation.
The action “involves personnel matters and is therefore confidential,” Righi said.
Batchler with some of his players in October. (Image courtesy of Shore Sports Zone)
Batchler, who lives in Fair Haven, could not be reached for immediate comment.
Rumson police Chief Scott Paterson last week referred inquiries to the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s office. Prosecutor’s spokesman Charlie Webster said Monday that there are “no charges or anything pending” involving Batchler.
Batchler, 39, has been teaching at R-FH for seven years, and is listed on the school’s website as an instructor in algebra and advanced-placement statistics.
He served as an assistant football coach for eight years before succeeding Shane Fallon as head coach in February, 2013, and has led his teams to NJSIAA sectional championships in each of his three years at the helm.
Righi declined further comment.
