Wrestling Coach, Staff Fired At John Hersey Following Investigation: District

ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, IL — Following an internal investigation, John Hersey High School varsity boys wrestling coach Joe Rupslauk and his staff have been relieved of their duties. According to a statement released by Township High School District 214, the review found residency eligibility issues with several students not residing within the attendance boundaries of the school.

In addition, the district said it has identified concerns related to potential recruiting practices and in-season training activities outside the school program. These concerns were included in the district's self-report to the Illinois High School Association and remain under review.

Rupslauk, who took over the program in 2017, and his staff had been on administrative leave prior to the decision. Officials said the season will continue under interim leadership, and the district has "begun planning for the program's future."

Officials said families directly affected by determinations of the review have been notified. The district noted it is working closely with IHSA, and will be reviewing its internal processes and procedures related to residency verification.

Due to student eligibility and personnel issues with regard to the decision as it remains under review with the IHSA, the district said it will not comment further at this time.