Corona del Sol football coach Jake Barro placed on administrative leave pending outcome of investigation

Richard Obert
Arizona Republic
Jake Barro speaks to a reporter during Tempe Union School District's Football Media Day at Valle Luna Mexican Restaurant on Aug. 6, 2022 in Chandler, AZ.

Tempe Corona del Sol head football coach Jake Barro is on paid administrative leave, while being investigated, according to a letter sent to families on Thursday.

Zach Alvira of the East Valley Tribune tweeted a copy of the the letter that was co-signed by Principal Nathan Kleve and Athletic Director Brian Fleming.

No reason was given for why Barro is being investigated.

The letter states, "Earlier this afternoon, Coach Barro was placed on paid administrative leave pending the outcome of an investigation. Assistant Coach Thornton will step in and assume coaching responsibilities until further notice. We appreciate your patience at this time and in event that further information becomes available, we will update players and families immediately."

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Barro, who led Casa Grande to the the 4A state championship last season when he was named the Arizona Cardinals High School Football Coach of the Year, did not respond to a message from The Republic.

Messages have been sent to Kleve, Fleming and Tempe Union High School District David Huffine.

Corona del Sol began official football practices in helmets this week. Assistant coach Sean Thornton is leading the practices while Barro is out. The Aztecs open the season Sept. 2 at home against Mesa. 

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To suggest human-interest story ideas and other news, reach Obert at richard.obert@arizonarepublic.com or 602-316-8827. Follow him on Twitter @azc_obert.

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