Rocky River High School baseball coaches resign after Myrtle Beach incident

District investigating incident involving team over weekend trip

Apr. 16, 2026 at 2:48am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a high school baseball game, with sharp, overlapping planes of navy blue, forest green, and burnt orange, conveying the fractured nature of the incident involving the Rocky River High School baseball team.The resignation of Rocky River High School's baseball coaches following an incident in Myrtle Beach raises questions about accountability and oversight in high school sports.Rocky River Today

The head baseball coach and assistant coach of Rocky River High School in Ohio have resigned following an incident involving the team during a weekend trip to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. School administrators say they are supporting the student-athletes and remaining coaching staff as the investigation continues.

Why it matters

High school sports scandals can have significant impacts on student-athletes, coaching staffs, and entire school communities. The resignation of the head and assistant coaches raises questions about the nature of the incident and the school district's response.

The details

According to an email sent to families, the incident occurred on the evening of Friday, April 10 and into early Saturday morning, April 11 while the Rocky River High School baseball team was participating in the South Atlantic Bank Invitational tournament in Myrtle Beach. After learning about the event, district and building administrators ensured all players were safe, contacted the local police department, and began an investigation. Following the investigation and subsequent meetings with staff, Head Coach Ed Piazza and Assistant Coach Michael Harper have resigned, and the District has accepted those resignations.

  • The incident occurred on the evening of Friday, April 10 and into early Saturday morning, April 11, 2026.
  • Practices and games were postponed to allow time for the investigation to be completed.
  • On April 16, 2026, the resignations of Head Coach Ed Piazza and Assistant Coach Michael Harper were announced.

The players

Ed Piazza

The former head baseball coach of Rocky River High School.

Michael Harper

The former assistant baseball coach of Rocky River High School.

Craig Moro

The current assistant baseball coach who will serve as the new Varsity Head Coach.

Mark Wagner

The Athletic Director of Rocky River High School.

Steve Sayers

The Principal of Rocky River High School.

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What they’re saying

“We appreciate the patience and support of our families as we move forward.”

— Mark Wagner, Athletic Director

“We are committed to supporting our student-athletes, coaching staff, and families for the remainder of the spring season.”

— Steve Sayers, Principal

What’s next

Myrtle Beach Police are expected to provide more details on the incident that led to the coaches' resignations.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the importance of accountability and oversight in high school sports programs, as well as the need for clear communication and support for students, families, and staff when such issues arise.