West Geauga High School football coach Matt Rosati is back at work following an extended leave during an investigation into misconduct allegations.
In a statement to 3News, athletic director Brandon Stewart confirmed Rosati "has resumed both his teaching and coaching contractual duties with West Geauga High School." Details regarding the investigation were not immediately made available, however the Geauga County Maple Leaf reports Superintendent Richard Markwardt wrote a letter to Rosati stating he found "insufficient evidence to warrant a pre-disciplinary hearing" after investigators spoke with "over 30 individuals and (reviewed) video footage."
Rosati was placed on leave last month following what the district described as "an allegation of inappropriate conduct" involving the football program that was "of a non-sexual nature." Rosati was prevented from coaching beginning with the Week 8 game against Lutheran West, and remained away from the sidelines as the Wolverines dropped their last three contests to finish the season 2-8.
Sources told the Maple Leaf the investigation involved players being accused of stealing a football from an area camp, but while most of those interviewed stated there was misconduct occurring within the team, "a sizable number of individuals testified that no such misconduct was committed," Markwardt wrote in his letter.
In statements to both the Maple Leaf and The News-Herald, attorney Vincent J. Calo denied Rosati had done anything wrong and noted that the coach was looking forward to getting back to work.
"He is thankful to (West Geauga Schools) for reaching the correct conclusion in this matter," Calo said, per the Maple Leaf. "Mr. Rosati has prided himself on helping instill integrity, accountability, and work ethic in his students and athletes during his stellar 35 year career."
