Mariner High School (Cape Coral, Fla.) has fired four football coaches and put two others on administrative leave as it investigates events that occurred during a recent lock-in at the school, as first reported by The News-Press. The school has taken significant disciplinary action against its football coaching staff following an investigation into events that transpired during a recent team-building lock-in. The school officially relieved head coach Tyran Jones and assistant coach Kaycie Zorbas of their duties on August 4, citing a lack of proper staff supervision during the gathering. Additionally, four other assistant coaches, who were not employees of the school district, have been fired.
Principal Tom Michel confirmed that while the specific details of the incident remain under investigation, no hazing occurred during the event. In a letter sent to parents, Michel emphasized that students involved in violating school expectations will be held accountable for their actions. The letter stated, "While student privacy laws prevent us from disclosing specific names or consequences, please be assured that no hazing took place and every individual involved is being held fully accountable."
The personnel changes arrive just one week before the Tritons are scheduled to begin their 2026-27 season. Tyran Jones, who led the team to a 3-7 record during his single season at the helm, is being replaced by interim head coach Doug Faase, who was not present at the lock-in. Assistant coach Luis Esposito will remain on the coaching staff. To fill the vacancies, the school has appointed Mariner employees Martin Cardenas and Jake Arbuckle, along with volunteers Justin McEwen and Adrian Shipman.
"We believe this new coaching staff is well-prepared, experienced, and deeply committed to leading our student-athletes with integrity both in the classroom and on the field," Michel stated. The Tritons are set to open their season with a game at Cypress Lake on August 14.
