Former Nease High School Athletic Director Chris Mastoridis said his departure last week stemmed from escalating clashes with administrators over personnel decisions.
Mastoridis said he initially planned not to comment on the severance, but opted to issue a statement to quell online rumors.
Reactions to the separation have been mixed, with some applauding Mastoridis’ exit and others backing the former administrator.
“After serving as the athletic director at Nease High School, I made every effort to prioritize the success and well-being of our student-athletes, coaches and staff,” he said. “Unfortunately, it became increasingly difficult to operate in an environment where leadership seemed more concerned with protecting their own rather than making decisions in the best interest of those we serve.”
Several coaches were either terminated or did not have their contracts renewed over the past year.
“While I strongly believe in standing up for what is right, it became clear that my vision for athletic excellence and integrity did not align with the priorities of the administration at Nease or the district leadership,” he said.
The district and Nease have not issued a statements on the matter or formally announced Mastoridis’ departure.
He is on paid administrative leave until the end of the year when his contract concludes.
The mutual separation took place last Thursday, sources said.
The school did not immediately comment on Mastoridis’ statement Monday.
A graduate of St. Augustine High School and former Flagler College baseball player, Mastoridis began his brief tenure at Nease last April.
A replacement has not been named. Nease’s new AD will be its fifth in five years.
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