Former John Jay coach pleads guilty in referee assault

Charges against players expected to be filed later

MARBLE FALLS, Texas – Former John Jay football coach Mark Breed admitted guilt Monday after his two high school players assaulted a referee during a game back in September.

The incident garnered national attention when video showing the two players hitting referee Robert Watts from behind went viral on social media.

Breed, turned himself in to the Marble Falls police Monday and was charged with assault causing bodily injury, a Class A misdemeanor.

Appearing before Burnet County Judge Linda Bayless, Breed entered a guilty plea, as part of an agreement between Breed and the prosecutor. Breed accepted responsibility for his role in the assault.

Breed was placed on probation for 18 months, fined $3,500, permanently gave up his teaching license, must complete an anger management program and perform 120 hours of community service. He will also pay restitution to Watts.

The investigation continues into the two players, Michael Moreno and Victor Rojas. But charges against Moreno and Rojas are expected to be filed, County Attorney Eddie Arredondo said.

Moreno will be charged as an adult, while Rojas’ case will be handled in the juvenile system.