Mission Viejo Checking Alleged Shoving Between Coach, Player

MISSION VIEJO —  Mission Viejo High School officials are investigating an alleged shoving match between volleyball Coach Mark Booth and one of his players, a source close to the situation said Wednesday.

As a result, Mission Viejo forfeited Tuesday’s match against El Toro and could forfeit its three remaining South Coast League matches, pending a decision by the school’s athletic review board, Athletic Director Randy Edwards said.

The alleged shoving match took place after a pool play match at the UCLA Tournament of Champions last week at Pauley Pavilion, said the source, speaking on condition that he not be identified. Mission Viejo was 3-5 in the tournament and failed to advance out of pool play.

“Booth put his hand on the player’s shoulder, like he wanted to talk to him,” the source said. “The player pulled away and pushed (Booth). Then the players jumped in between them. There weren’t any punches thrown.”

Edwards said board members are interviewing players, and a decision is expected by Friday, when Mission Viejo is scheduled to play San Clemente.

Edwards refused to disclose details of the incident because of the investigation.

Mission Viejo is 6-4 in regular-season matches and has been ranked as high as ninth in the county this season.

“This has been one of our best seasons in a long time,” Edwards said. “The kids have come together, and Booth has been a good coach. We’re going to see if it can continue.”

Booth was unavailable for comment.