Coach enters innocent plea in simple assault case

NEWTON FALLS — A volunteer football coach from Campbell has pleaded innocent to hitting a 14-year-old boy during an Oct. 22 football game in Newton Falls.

An attorney for Michael Mascola, 25, of Struthers faxed a notice of appearance and a not guilty plea to the Newton Falls Municipal Court for Mascola’s arraignment Monday morning, the court said.

Mascola is charged with simple assault.

Rob Bauman, Newton Falls athletic director, told police that during a play, the boy made a tackle near the Campbell sideline.

Mascola made a reference to a late hit and struck the teen during a scuffle that followed, police said.

Mascola is free on his own recognizance. His preliminary hearing is set for 10 a.m. Jan. 12.

Campbell Superintendent Thomas Robey said the school district will wait until the legal matter is settled before deciding if any action will be taken concerning Mascola.

Mascola did not return a call seeking comment.