Football coach fired two days before season starts

“The kids are the most important thing. We’re here for the kids, not because of personal things between adults. It’s about the children, and I think along the way, that message got lost in this situation.”

Jones and DeKalb County athletics director Ron Sebree declined to comment on Moore’s removal, referring all inquiries to school-district spokesman Dale Davis. Moore posted a 26-18 record in four seasons, taking McNair to the state playoffs three times.

“There were some issues, some concerns that led to the decision,” Davis said, declining to provide details. “He was removed at the discretion of the principal.”

John April, who is McNair’s athletics liaison, was appointed interim coach and oversaw practice Thursday. The Mustangs play Stephenson at 7:30 p.m. Saturday at DeKalb’s Hallford Stadium.

Moore, 40, said he was called to the principal’s office after a “miscommunication” over the team’s meal before a scrimmage Saturday. Moore said his players initially were scheduled to eat at Panthersville Stadium. However, Moore said he was informed late the day before that the school buses used for transportation would be delayed by two hours.

Moore said he then decided to host the meal at McNair rather than at Panthersville Stadium, with parents and booster-club members bringing cooking grills to the school. Moore thought Jones knew of the change of plans, but later found out differently.

“[Jones] didn’t know about it and said that permission wasn’t given by him.” Moore said. “He had concerns over the grills being on campus, and the conversation snowballed from there.”

“I don’t think it’s fair, but sometimes life isn’t fair. I appreciate my experience at McNair, and feel blessed that I was able to touch the lives of so many outstanding young men. I wish nothing but the best for the football program.”