The Charlotte Observer

Independence High football coach Tom Knotts.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- The district attorney has declined to charge Independence High football coach Tom Knotts in connection with an alleged confrontation with a parent last week.

Knotts was suspended from his coaching duties after he allegedly shoved a fence into the face of a player’s father, injuring him. It happened after the junior varsity team’s loss to Butler last Thursday night.

Knotts did not coach his varsity team’s game against Butler the following night, and the Patriots lost 21-20 -- their first loss to a North Carolina team in eight years.

Matthews police had said that the parent, Isaac Avant, was yelling at Knotts and was critical of his play calling. Witnesses said Knotts walked over to confront Avant, who was on the other side of the fence. He then allegedly pushed the fence, hitting Avant.

There’s no word yet on when Knotts might return to his coaching job.