Kankakee School District 111 announced on Tuesday that it has placed its head football coach, Ed Hazelett, on indefinite suspension after a security breach involving a student’s unauthorized entry into a school building.
Interim Leadership Takes Over
Offensive coordinator Kendrick Crite, who previously served as the team’s offensive line coach, has been appointed interim head coach while the district conducts its review.
According to officials, a player was found using a set of building keys after regular hours, gaining access to the premises and later being discovered by police attempting to use the swimming pool. The incident prompted the district to act swiftly.
Hazelett, in his first season as head coach, guided the team to a 7‑4 record and had previously contributed to a championship‑winning staff under former coach Derek Hart. His departure leaves a void, but district leaders say the program’s culture of sportsmanship remains intact.
Board Review and Community Expectations
Superintendent Teresa Lance confirmed that Hazelett’s status will be discussed at the upcoming school board meeting on September 14, though she declined to elaborate on the nature of the personal matter referenced by district officials.
The district emphasized that the team’s recent victory, a win that followed the player’s participation in the season opener against Edwardsville, underscores the continued focus on excellence both on and off the field.