Portsmouth Public Schools Fires Two Junior Varsity Basketball Coaches After Alleged Impersonation of 13-Year-Old Player During Game

Portsmouth Public Schools has fired two junior varsity basketball coaches from Churchland High School after an assistant coach allegedly impersonated a 13-year-old player during a game on Jan. 21.

According to district spokesperson Lauren Nolasco, the incident was reported to administrators at Nansemond River High School by Churchland High School. The assistant coach, 22-year-old Arlisha Boykins, was fired from the job after the parents of the girl she was reportedly impersonating complained to school officials.

The Virginia High School League, the sanctioning body for public high school games in the state, was informed of the incident by Churchland administrators. Sources told local NBC affiliate WAVY TV that the varsity coach was “encouraging the behavior” during the game and has also been fired.

The incident has sparked outrage among parents and school officials, with many calling for a full investigation into the matter. Portsmouth Public Schools has not yet released a statement on the incident, but is expected to do so in the coming days.

The Virginia High School League is also expected to take action against the school and the coaches involved in the incident. It is unclear at this time what disciplinary measures will be taken, but the league has stated that it takes such matters seriously and will take appropriate action.