Kailua tries to resolve concerns about coach

By Stacy Kaneshiro
Advertiser Staff Writer

Kailua High administrators are investigating several complaints against the school's varsity football coach, Darren Johnson.

Athletic director Mel Imai said that several of Johnson's assistants complained to him about misconduct by Johnson, who has guided the Surfriders to the playoffs in seven of his eight seasons as head coach.

Imai said when he met with the assistants Tuesday, several tendered their resignations. Imai asked them to consider staying if the problems are resolved.

Imai said he met with principal Francine Honda last night to discuss the complaints. Imai would not disclose the complaints, saying they were "mostly football coaching-related. But there were other concerns, too."

Johnson could not be reached last night.

"We have spoken with D.J. (Darren Johnson), but there needs to be more things done," Imai said. "He was given a copy of the concerns, so he knows what we're talking about."

Although coaching positions are renewable annually, Imai said Johnson — who is also on the Kailua faculty — is still the head coach.

"Generally speaking, they're retained, but it's not automatic," Imai said.

Reach Stacy Kaneshiro at skaneshiro@honoluluadvertiser.com or 525-8042.