New Sayreville coach will use last year as a ‘learning opportunity’

The new head football coach at Sayreville War Memorial High School is already working with players in the weight room, prepping for summer conditioning and hopefully a drama-free 2015 season.

Chris Beagan, a graduate of Sayreville High, is tasked with not only continuing the program's storied success, but also with removing the program from last season's black eye caused by allegations of sexual hazing tactics in the locker room.

Last season was cut short after just three games.

"One of the reasons why we all get into coaching is because we feel like we have a tremendous impact on the development of these young men," Beagan said in a conversation with New Jersey 101.5FM.

Beagan, who will start in September as a health and physical education teacher at the high school, said one can't overlook the dark cloud cast over the team last season.

"You're always going to utilize these situations as learning opportunities," he said, insisting supervision is key when handling a team of adolescents.

The former Monroe High School coach said he has not had any interaction with players' parents as of yet, but a special meeting is scheduled for later this spring.

He said for now, he's in charge of turning his team into a solid group of student-athletes, "which is a grind."

Seven football players were charged in connection with alleged inappropriate hazing acts, including sexual assault, over a 10-day period in September. Coach George Najjar was removed from his position in February.

The 2015 season is scheduled to begin on Sept. 11.