LA JOLLA \u2013 Torrey Pines High School stirred controversy in September when it informed longtime boys lacrosse coach Jono Zissi that his contract would not be renewed for the 2026 season.<\/p>\n
Over 15 years, Zissi had guided the Falcons to 12 CIF championships, including seven consecutive titles.<\/p>\n
The decision came to a head on Oct. 16, when players, parents, and alumni packed a San Dieguito Union High School District board meeting, urging officials to reverse course.<\/p>\n
The school cited alleged recruiting rule violations as the reason for not renewing Zissi\u2019s contract \u2014 allegations both he and his supporters strongly reject.<\/p>\n
\u201cMy family loves Torrey Pines, the culture of lacrosse, the quality of the men it produces, and at the heart of that culture is Coach Zissi,\u201d a supporter said during the meeting.<\/p>\n
Senior lacrosse player Ross Jacobsen also voiced his support. \u201cThis man inspires students and helps students,\u201d Jacobsen said. \u201cSDUHSD claims they follow a student-first policy. We are removing a man who inspires us to help the whole community. That hat does not fit that agenda.\u201d<\/p>\n
District officials told Zissi that the CIF had determined he violated a recruiting bylaw specific to the San Diego region, which bars student-athletes from transferring directly onto a varsity team if the coach at their new school previously coached or directed a club team the student played for. Officials said the CIF had imposed sanctions on the Torrey Pines program.<\/p>\n
Zissi\u2019s representatives, however, said the CIF never conducted a formal investigation. <\/p>\n
In a letter to his attorney, CIF\u2019s San Diego Section said it had only completed a \u201cpreliminary review\u201d after being notified of potential bylaw issues and referred the matter to the school for further investigation.<\/p>\n
Supporters continue to call for Zissi\u2019s reinstatement, emphasizing his leadership on and off the field and the program\u2019s lasting effects on student character. <\/p>\n
They hope the district will reconsider, though there has been no indication that it will reverse its decision.<\/p>\n
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