Maiden Football Coach Steps Down After Weekend DWI

Maiden High School varsity head football coach and physical education teacher Will Byrne self-reported to Catawba County Schools that he was charged over the weekend with driving while impaired, reckless driving with endangerment, and child endangerment.

Upon receiving this information, the district immediately placed Mr. Byrne on suspension with pay for his teaching position, effective Monday (October 26) pending the outcome of the investigation. Mr. Byrne also submitted his resignation as head football coach, effective immediately, citing health reasons.

The news release says that Catawba County Schools “takes these charges seriously and expects employees to exercise sound judgment consistent with their responsibilities as educators and role models. We recognize the concern this news may cause our students, families, staff, and the Maiden community. School leadership is coordinating classroom coverage and working with the coaching staff to maintain continuity for student-athletes. Justin Hawn, already a part of our Maiden High staff, has been named interim head football coach for the remainder of the season.”