Hearlihy Fired From Alemany Girls’ Program

MISSION HILLS — Melissa Hearlihy, who led the Alemany High girls’ basketball team to nine Mission League championships and two Southern Section titles in 12 seasons as coach, has been fired.

Father Robert Milbauer, Alemany’s principal, declined comment, confirming only that Hearlihy had been terminated as a coach and teacher, effective at the end of the month. Milbauer referred all inquiries to the archdiocese of Los Angeles, of which Alemany is a member.

“All I can say is that it is a personnel matter and we cannot discuss it publicly,” said Father Gregory Coiro, director of media relations of the archdiocese.

Hearlihy, who compiled a 268-68 career record and led the Indians to Division II-A titles in 1992 and ‘94, said she was not given a reason for her dismissal but believes it stemmed from her handling of a player she declined to identify. Hearlihy denies any wrongdoing.

“The reason I believe I was terminated is that I would not agree to [play] somebody on the team that I didn’t believe should be on the team,” Hearlihy said. “That is the reason I believe I was terminated. I was not given a reason.”

Hearlihy said she confronted Milbauer for an explanation but Milbauer declined.

“He said, ‘I can’t answer that question,’ ” Hearlihy said.

Hearlihy said she has retained an attorney and will appeal the decision through the archdiocese.

Alemany was 24-6 last season and co-champion with Harvard-Westlake with a 9-1 league mark. The Indians reached the III-AA final, losing to Muir. Alemany advanced to the quarterfinals of the state tournament, losing to eventual state champion Bishop Montgomery.

Hearlihy led Alemany to the section finals five times within the last six years. She was selected The Times’ Valley coach of the year in 1992 and ’94.

A replacement has yet to be named, Athletic Director Dudley Rooney said.