Marist Catholic High School removed Zach Loboy as head varsity football coach effective immediately after Friday’s game against Cottage Grove. Jake Lowther will take over as interim head coach for the rest of the season, with three regular-season games left.
The timing is what makes this stand out. The game ended with Marist Catholic down 63-0, and the second half was not played. In the first half, the Spartans used at least two on-side kicks, a risky tactic that can change field position fast but also signals a team trying to create extra possessions and swing momentum. For readers following onside kick news, the matchup draws attention for reasons far beyond the final score.
Principal Bob Fraley said the school decided a change in leadership was necessary to reflect its mission and values. He added that the priority now is to support players, keep the team environment positive and help the group finish the season strong. The statement does not spell out the specific conduct behind the decision, and it does not say whether the score, the play-calling or the kicks themselves broke any school, league or sportsmanship rule.
Lowther joined the football staff this year after previously serving as a varsity assistant coach at Cascade High School. Fraley said he is confident Lowther will give the student-athletes the leadership and guidance they need, and he acknowledged that a midseason coaching change can be difficult for players and families. For Marist Catholic, the next test is not the reason Loboy was removed. It is whether Lowther can steady the team through the final three games with the fallout from Friday still fresh.
