A New Jersey high school baseball team's recent preseason trip to Myrtle Beach, S.C., resulted in an incident that led to the resignation of longtime head coach Joe Smith and removal of an unpaid volunteer.
As reported by nj.com, Mainland Regional High School superintendent Mark Marrone announced Sunday morning that Smith resigned Saturday just one game into the 2026 regular season.
"These actions were taken in response to concerns that came to district leadership's attention regarding a recent team trip," Marrone wrote, as reported by Atlantic City news source BreakingAC.com. "The district is committed to maintaining the highest standards of safety, respect and integrity within our athletic programs."
Former coach and current athletic director Billy Kern will serve as the interim head coach until a new coach is hired, nj.com reported. An immediate search has begun.
According to students who spoke off camera with NBC affiliate WCAU in Philadelphia, at least one of the adults traveling with the team visited a strip club during their trip.
This has not yet been confirmed by the district.
"I think everybody is shocked, surprised, because it as I told the kids were focused on moving forward," said Kern, the athletic director. "We are not going to dwell on it or point fingers and move forward."
“Our athletes deserve to be in an environment where they are safe, respected, and supported to achieve both on and off the field,” Marrone said in a statement. “When concerns are brought to our attention, we take them seriously and respond with the thoroughness they require. AD Kern’s immediate availability to stabilize the program ensures continuity and stability for our players, and I’m confident in his leadership and commitment to our athletes.”
A volunteer coach was also removed from the staff, although Marrone did not identify the individual. It was also noted that other changes to the coaching staff may occur as the district continues its review, nj.com reported.
“The district was made aware of concerns related to a recent team trip and has initiated a comprehensive review of those matters. This review is ongoing, and the district is committed to addressing any issues identified with the seriousness they deserve,” Marrone said.
“As is district policy, we do not comment publicly on personnel matters beyond what is necessary to communicate operational updates. Any staffing decisions made by the district are handled with careful attention to confidentiality, due process, and all applicable state and federal regulations.”
According to nj.com Smith owns a 284-129-1 career record and came into this spring as the 10th winningest active coach in South Jersey. He was in the dugout for Mainland’s season-opening win over Hammonton on Thursday.
“Our players have been directed to be prepared for Monday’s matchup against Hammonton. The district remains committed to providing our athletes with safe, supportive, and educationally enriching experiences,” Marrone added. “We are dedicated to maintaining the highest standards of program oversight, coach conduct, and student-athlete welfare.”
Mainland Regional defeated Hammonton, 12-5, on Monday.
