WESTPORT, CT — More than 200 Staples High School students staged a walkout Friday morning in a bold show of support for recently dismissed boys soccer coach Russell Oost-Lievense. The demonstration marked a growing outcry over the decision, with students denouncing what they view as a flawed process and unjust outcome.
Students Rally Behind Ousted Soccer Coach
At 9 a.m., students left class and gathered near the school’s North Avenue entrance, chanting “We want Russ back!” and “Fire VJ!” — targeting Athletic Director VJ Sarullo. The protest lasted about 15 minutes and drew support from more than 50 parents, alumni, and community members who gathered nearby.
Student leaders including rising soccer captains Dylan Shackelford and Gabe Hellman addressed the crowd, calling for greater transparency. Alexis Krenzer, a girls soccer player coached by Oost-Lievense, said, “We’re here because fairness matters.”
Controversy Surrounding Dismissal
The protest followed a 14-hour Board of Education meeting where Oost-Lievense appealed the decision not to renew his contract. The board upheld Superintendent Thomas Scarice’s recommendation in a 5-1 vote, citing his failure to report a preseason incident involving an assistant coach.
Critics argue the investigation was incomplete and biased. Board member Robert Harrington, who opposed the decision, called for Sarullo’s resignation and stated, “The wrong person lost his job.”
Community Voices Support
Parents and former coaches rallied behind Oost-Lievense. Dan Woog, who led the Staples program until 2021, called him “everything we needed in a head coach.” Parent Michael Cammeyer praised his positive influence on student-athletes.
The walkout has intensified calls for accountability within the Westport school system as students, parents, and alumni demand answers and fairness in handling such critical decisions.
