Texas HS players say coach told them to strike referee

“A player came over and told me the coach said, ‘Do it, ‘” said Victor Rojas, the player who tackled Watts first.

“I can’t explain it”, said Rojas. “You need to hit the ref. He needs to pay the price, ‘” said Moreno.

The referee, Robert Watts, is accused by the players of blowing some calls and using racial slurs during the game.

Officials with the Northside Independent School District said they plan to file a formal complaint against Watts, while Watts is considering taking legal action against the players.

Moreno also apologized for the hit, adding, “It’s one of my biggest regrets”. Since the incident, allegations have been made against the official that he made racial statements and that an assistant coach allegedly told players that the official “needs to pay for cheating us”. “They are flat-out lying”, he said.

The Texas Association of Sports Officials, the University Interscholastic League and other agencies are investigating the incident.

Police in Marble Falls, Texas, continue a criminal investigation into the incident.

Both players said if given the opportunity, they would apologize to Watts. Moreno expressed remorse and indicated that he pulled up somewhat because of his indecision about the order to hit the official. “It’s been affecting my life, greatly”. He has not commented publicly.

“You put your trust in a grown up, your guardian, your coach…I trust that he wants the best for me”, Moreno said. Hernandez believes the boys have already experienced an appropriate level of punishment. The players have served a three-day suspension, spent a week in alternative school and been thrown off the team.

“Without a thought I would”.

“They apologized, they’re sorry”.