Hockey Coaches Cleared of Punishment Allegations

An independent investigation into allegations that Andover High School hockey coaches withheld food and water from players as punishment for losing a game determined the accusations were "not sustained," the school's principal said yesterday in a letter to community members.

But the shocking allegations, which led to varsity head coach Chris Kuchar and two other staffers being placed on leave last month, are still being investigated by the state's Department of Children and Families, Andover High School Principal Philip Conrad said.

"Andover Public Schools has concluded its independent investigation of the allegations filed with the Massachusetts Department of Children and Families against our ice hockey coaching staff. Our investigation found that the allegations were 'Not Sustained,' " Conrad wrote in a statement.

And though Conrad said he hopes to "reinstate the ice hockey coaches as soon as we can," he said school officials first have to confirm that DCF has reached the same conclusion.

"However, at this point we have not received any communication of determination from the agency. As soon as we do I will be able to make a determination about returning the coaches to their full coaching duties," Conrad wrote. "Unfortunately it does not appear that DCF is going to complete their investigation in accordance with the timeline originally provided​ to any of us by the agency."

Conrad added, "This continues to be a difficult time for all of us and I am sure that it has been difficult for you and your family. I hope this can be resolved quickly."

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