Deer Creek Baseball Coach Removed From Position Following Investigation

A Deer Creek baseball coach is relieved of his coaching duties amid allegations of hazing.

Deer Creek Public Schools removed Coach Roland Baza as head coach after the district was made aware of an incident involving his players. 

Coach Roland Baza is still listed as a staff member on Deer Creek High School’s website, however according to the district he is not the head baseball coach. He was stripped of that role after an incident during a practice on Sept. 26.

According to at least one parent who wishes to remain anonymous, photos show the result of that incident. She said her son’s knuckles were severely burned after what’s being called a 'punishment drill,' where the coach allegedly made the players drag their knuckles on turf that was 145 degrees.

The district did not verify the drill. However, the district did share a letter from Superintendent Jason Perez that went out to parents.

“I want to express my sincerest apologies to you and our players for the events that unfolded,” Perez stated in the letter. “While we believe the intent was not to harm our baseball student athletes, as educators it is our job to keep our students safe, and we failed this week.”

News 9 reached out to Coach Baza for a comment but have not heard back.

According to the Oklahoma County Sheriff's Office, a possible incident was reported, and the sheriff's office is investigating.