Wynne football coach suspended, district dispels rumors

WYNNE, Ark. (KAIT) - A day after suspending its head football coach, administrators with a Northeast Arkansas school district are trying to quash what they call unfounded rumors on the internet.

On Thursday, Oct. 20, the Wynne School Superintendent’s Office announced Coach Van Paschal was suspended with pay.

An attorney for the district confirmed the incident did not involve inappropriate contact with students; but, they would not say what happened.

On Friday, Oct. 21, Superintendent Dr. Kenneth Moore released a statement through the attorney dispelling the rumors floating around on social media:

“Wynne School District would like to dispel rumors and speculation circulating on social media about its investigation into the football program. The investigation is still ongoing, but there is no basis to believe that Coach Paschal or any member of the football coaching staff engaged in criminal conduct.”

However, the school resource officer with the Wynne Police Department said they are looking into an incident involving the football coach. At this time it’s not criminal, but Chief Richard Dennis said that could change depending on the outcome of the investigation.

Assistant Coach Clark McBride will serve as interim coach until further notice.

On Thursday, the school district released the following statement through its attorneys:

“On October 19, 2022, Wynne School District Administration placed the high school football coach on administrative leave pending the outcome of an investigation concerning the football program. Assistant Coach Clark McBride will assume coaching responsibilities until further notice. Due to the employee protections afforded under Arkansas law, the District can have no further comment at this time.”

We spoke with parents and fans at the first game since the suspension announcement. The Yellow Jackets played the Paragould Rams Friday night.

Most parents said they were sad about the decision by the school district.

“I’m disappointed, it’s sad,” said Mark Adamson parent to a player.

Adamson’s son has played for Paschal for the past three years. He said he has enjoyed watching his son grow as a player.

“I’m proud of what’s happened on the team and the push to get the kids of where they are,” he said.

One mom said the game just does not feel the same.

“I’m not feeling great, because coach Paschal is a great coach, he is my number one fan,” said Angie Wesson.

This is a developing story, and we will bring you the latest details once we confirm it.

Copyright 2022 KAIT. All rights reserved.