Kaitlin McKinley Becker

Andover High School Coach on Administrative Leave Over ‘Coaching Practices'

Some Andover parents aren't happy with Athletic Director Bill Martin's decision to sideline E.J. Perry.

The boys volleyball coach at Andover High School has been placed on administrative leave for "coaching practices."

Many, including Cedric Gilette, are frustrated that E.J. Perry is on leave.

"He once woke up at 4 in the morning, drove four hours up to Colby college to introduce me to a coach," Gillette said. "Every kid whose played for him has a story like that."

Gillette, a 3-sport captain at Andover High, has played under Perry since he was 8 years old.

"He's yelled at me before. Never nothing too far. Practice is supposed to be tough. Sports are supposed to be tough."

An Instagram post from the team's former captain appears to explain what happened in a recent match between himself and Perry. It says in part, "Coach comes over to me and says if I ever do that again and put myself ahead of the team, I'll be kicked off the team."

The confrontation allegedly occurred after the player refused to come out for a substitution.

Some Andover parents aren't happy with Athletic Director Bill Martin's decision to sideline Perry.

"You asked me what I would tell him, I'd tell him get out," said Dan Gillette, Cedric's father. "This is a very good man who's been dedicated to this town for a long time. Not just at the high school level but at the youth level, and this guy comes in from I don't know where and he's trying to fire our coaches."

Perry's influence on the kids is why many in Andover are standing behind him.

"He was able to draw him from whatever strengths he has and he was able to use those strengths and make him a very good player," Arun Kuol said.

The principal, superintendent and athletic director did not respond to NBC10 Boston's request for comment.

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