News Summary

In a surprising turn of events, Anthony DeFilio, head coach of Coginchaug High School’s football team, is suing Lindsay Dahlheimer and her husband for defamation. The lawsuit, filed in June 2023, claims false allegations of abuse led to severe emotional distress. Amidst continuing controversies regarding coaching practices, the community is left questioning the stability of the football program as it faces significant upheaval.

Drama Unfolds at Coginchaug High School: Football Coach Takes Legal Action

In the charming town of Durham, Connecticut, local football fans are buzzing with news that has taken a surprising turn. Anthony DeFilio, the new head coach at Coginchaug High School’s football team, has decided to file a lawsuit against none other than Lindsay Dahlheimer, the Chairwoman of the Regional District 13 Board of Education, along with her husband, Michael. The legal action, filed in Middletown’s Superior Court on June 16, has sparked conversations throughout the community about what really happened.

What’s the Fuss About?

So, what’s all this about? DeFilio, who just took on the coaching reins in 2023, claims that the Dahlheimers made malicious, baseless, and false complaints regarding how he treated his student-athletes. According to his attorney, Craig Fishbein, who also happens to serve as a state House representative from Wallingford’s 90th District, these allegations have led to significant emotional distress for DeFilio. He asserts that the couple has behaved improperly, even claiming they engaged in stalking and monitoring him.

A Chain of Events

It all started when Lindsay Dahlheimer approached Principal Deborah Stone to voice her concerns, alleging that DeFilio was being verbally abusive and had even physically assaulted players. An internal investigation soon followed, and it concluded that Dahlheimer’s complaints were without merit. However, not deterred, she reached out to the state Department of Children and Families to further voice her allegations. The department conducted its own investigation, which wrapped up in November 2024, only to find the claims to be unsubstantiated.

Impact on Reputation

The lawsuit argues that the actions of the Dahlheimers have not only harmed DeFilio’s reputation within the community but have also placed him under emotional distress, leaving him with health issues and sleepless nights. Meanwhile, DeFilio believes they even tried to manipulate the situation to have him fired or pressured him into resigning.

Calling for Damages

As he fights back against these accusations, DeFilio is seeking damages for what he describes as a costly endeavor, with requests for punitive damages, attorney fees, and additional expenses tied to the lawsuit. There’s a virtual prejudgment remedy hearing scheduled for July 9, where the legal team aims to secure a lien on the Dahlheimers’ personal property, amounting to $250,000.

Coaching Turmoil at the School

As a result of his resignation, the school had to cancel the final home game, raising questions about the stability of the coaching staff and the football program overall. School officials are now on the lookout for a temporary certified coach to step in during this unsettling time.

Community in Limbo

As the dust continues to settle in Durham, the community watches closely. Will the lawsuit bring resolution, or will it further complicate matters for the football program? As students and parents await the outcome, one thing is clear: the football fields of Coginchaug have become the stage for a drama far bigger than the game itself.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

LIVE BALL Resources

Additional Resources