Canfield coach resigns post

CANFIELD -- Canfield High softball coach Fred Mayhew has resigned his position.
Mayhew, the varsity coach since 2000, resigned as of Oct. 17, according to a letter submitted to the school district.
The school board accepted the resignation 3-1 on Nov. 8, with member Mark Squicquero absent during the voting. Board member Sam Pitzulo voted no.
Mayhew was the subject of a heated board of education meeting in July when about 25 people, including parents of current and former softball players, urged the board not to renew Mayhew's contract.
Parents described harsh treatment of players and harsh coaching methods.
Others came forward after the meeting to support Mayhew, saying players worked hard but were treated fairly.
The board kept Mayhew on as a softball coach, but voted to hire Ronnie Haurin as varsity coach. Haurin also coaches the volleyball team and is a physical education teacher, said schools Superintendent Dante Zambrini.
Canfield High School Athletic Director Lee Frey said he talked to Mayhew about the resignation, which was for "personal reasons." Frey said he didn't want to elaborate, but said that Mayhew did not resign because of the controversy this summer.
Mayhew could not be reached for comment.