Even though the chest-to-chest contact Apollo-Ridge football coach John Simon made with side judge Fred Bosh during a Sept. 18 game in Apollo was deemed unintentional and harmless, its effects may haunt Simon for a long time.

After hearing testimony from both sides Wednesday, the WPIAL ruled hit Simon with several punishments.

They include:

• Public censuring of Simon for talking about the incident.

• Probation for the Apollo-Ridge football program for the rest of the season.

• Letters of apology to all involved outside parties.

• Coaching education classes for Simon, with successful completion reported to the WPIAL by June 30.

• A suspension for Simon for Friday’s game at Kittanning. He already served a suspension last week for the game against Shady Side Academy.

WPIAL Executive Director Tim O’Malley said Apollo-Ridge can appeal the latter two sanctions. Apollo-Ridge likely will determine today if that will happen.

Copyright ©2026— Trib Total Media, LLC (TribLIVE.com)