Bunnell Coach Expresses ‘Remorse’ For Incident At End Of Game: School Officials

STRATFORD, CT — Bunnell High School boys basketball coach Jeremy Daniel has expressed “genuine remorse” for an incident that happened at the end of a recent game, according to school officials.

The Bulldogs defeated town rival Stratford High School 51-34 in the South-West Conference semifinals on Feb. 28 at Bunnell High School.

Bunnell Athletic Director Wayne Thrall said that an incident occurred at the end of the game that “did not align with our professional expectations for coaching conduct,” according to a letter to the Stratford community.

“We hold our coaches to a high standard of composure, sportsmanship, and leadership, particularly in emotionally charged moments, and the response observed as the end of the game fell short of those expectations,” Thrall wrote in the letter. “Our coaches serve as role models for our student-athletes, and their actions must consistently reflect the values of our school community.”

Thrall and the Bunnell administration met with Daniel to “clearly express our concerns regarding how the situation was handled,” according to the letter.

The letter does not provide details on what happened during the situation.

“Coach Daniel has acknowledged his uncharacteristic lapse in judgment, conveyed genuine remorse, and demonstrated a clear understanding of the total impact of his actions,” Thrall wrote. “We have reinforced our expectations moving forward, emphasizing accountability, composure, and the responsibility that comes with leading a program. This matter will be handled internally by the school administration and will be used as a teachable moment to ensure growth and alignment with our program expectations.”

Thrall said Bunnell Athletics remains “committed to promoting positive sportsmanship, respect for officials and opponents, and providing an environment that reflects the highest standards of interscholastic athletics.”

“We look forward to collaborative dialogue with both District Administration and our colleagues at Stratford High School to identify steps that will foster a healthier and more respectful rivalry between the two schools,” Thrall wrote.