Brande Says Thomas Has Ruled Against Him; He Will Appeal

Charlie Brande, who was relieved of his duties as girls’ volleyball coach at Corona del Mar High School last week, said he’s appealing a ruling by the Southern Section Commissioner Stan Thomas that Brande is in violation of Southern Section rules.

Brande said he learned of Thomas’ decision Thursday. Thomas was unavailable for comment.

Brande said he will meet with a Southern Section review panel to appeal the alleged violation, which involved the youth teams Brande coaches at the Balboa Bay Club (boys) and Orange County Volleyball (girls).

Southern Section rules prohibit high school coaches from working with players outside of the regular season--from January to mid-May--when the players still have eligibility remaining. Several county players compete on Brande’s summer youth teams.

“There was a list of 45 allegations concerning me and all (Thomas) could come up with was that I allegedly violated one (rule),� Brande said. “I have to get together with the (Corona del Mar) parents and my attorney (Stuart Waldrip). I’m a fighter. I teach these kids to be tough. I didn’t violate any rules.�

Corona del Mar officials have told Brande he could return if cleared of any violations.

Meanwhile, Corona del Mar has hired Dale Flickinger of Redondo Beach to coach the girls’ team, which is ranked second nationally.

“I’m in this business for the kids,� Brande said. “The girls will be fine, and I’m confident that Dale will do a good job coaching them.�