Heritage football coach Joe Osovet has been fired from the program, according to a release from Blount County Schools on Oct. 21.
"Blount County Schools has made the decision to relieve Joe Osovet of his duties as the head football coach at Heritage High School, effective immediately," Blount County schools said in a press release. "Mr. Osovet's employment status as a teacher remains under review as part of an ongoing personnel investigation.
"We recognize the importance of stability and continuity for our student-athletes, families and the Heritage High School community. Our focus remains on supporting our students and ensuring that the school's football program can move forward in a positive and productive manner. Because this remains an ongoing
personnel matter, Blount County Schools will not provide additional details at this time."
Osovet had previously been placed on administrative leave on Oct. 2.
The former Tennessee football tight ends coach was hired in 2022 and accumulated a 18-27 record with the Mountaineers. Heritage has not made the TSSAA football playoffs since 2016.
Heritage is currently 3-5 and 1-4 in Region 2-4A play. It hosts Gibbs on Oct. 22.
Osovet started his tenure with the Vols in 2018 as director of player development on former coach Jeremy Pruitt's staff and then moved to director of football programming in 2019. He was promoted to his first on-field role as tight ends coach in February 2020 and also served as junior college recruiting coordinator.
Pruitt was fired after the 2020 season and new coach Josh Heupel did not retain Osovet.
Wynton Jackson covers high school sports for Knox News. Email: wynton.jackson@knoxnews.com
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This article originally appeared on Knoxville News Sentinel: Heritage football coach Joe Osovet fired after nearly five seasons
