High school coach accused of making sexual deals with player moms

In Poteau, Oklahoma, a longstanding high school football coach named Greg D. Werner has become the focus of an administrative complaint lodged with the Oklahoma State Department of Education that alleges serious misconduct. The complaint references disturbing claims made by a player who stated that Werner had engaged in 'sexual deals with player moms,' suggesting that he had exchanged sexual favors for improved playing time for their sons. This situation began gaining public attention following an official request for records that was submitted to the Poteau Independent School District by the state education department on August 12, 2024, detailing various allegations against Werner. The inquiry has developed over the span of several months, culminating in Werner's resignation just days before the Poteau Pirates were scheduled to play their season opener on August 30, 2024. He had been influential in Oklahoma high school football, leading the Poteau Pirates to a state championship game in 2019 and accumulating an impressive record during his coaching career with over 254 wins by July 2024. Following his resignation, state officials were prompted to investigate serious allegations reflecting a culture of impropriety that had allegedly been reported by teammates of a player. The complaining player has indicated that school administration was made aware of Werner's inappropriate behavior as early as August 2024 but had taken no significant action to address the concerns raised by students or faculty. Reports suggest that teachers had firsthand knowledge of the inappropriate text messages exchanged between Werner and the mothers of football players and had relayed this information to the school administration. However, according to the complainant, no measures were enacted to stop the alleged misconduct. This lingering issue of not addressing reported misconduct has raised questions regarding how such allegations were handled by officials at Poteau Public Schools. As this story continues to unfold, the implications are significant for all involved, especially as such allegations could tarnish the reputation of the football program and affect the broader community's perception of high school athletics in the region. The Oklahoma Coaches Association Hall of Fame, of which Werner was a member, may also find its integrity questioned as they navigate the repercussions of these allegations. The state investigation, led by senior investigator Bradley Delozier, is seeking further records and evidence regarding Werner’s tenure with the Poteau Independent School District, indicating a commitment from the state to ensure accountability in this troubling situation.