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Alhambra High School Coaches Fired After Players Given Performance Enhancers

ALHAMBRA (CBSLA.com) — Alhambra High School officials have dismissed the institution's football coaching staff after it emerged players had been given nutritional supplement Creatine to enhance their performance on the field.

Head coach Chuck Leonardis told the Pasadena Star News seven players had been given the organic acid by his staff after the students had asked about it.

Athletic director Jerry DeSantis confirmed the school was "in the process of a coaching change".

Leonardis denied doing anything wrong.

He said players were given "extremely low dosages" of Creatine, which is naturally synthesized in the human body for muscle use. He also said he asked students to alert their parents.

"We were very up front and did not recommend it. We had the kids talk to their parents. It's a legal over-the-counter supplement and we did not break any school rules," Leonardis said.

Principal Duane Russell announced the decision after a parent who was not notified complained, according to the Star News.

The outlet reports Leonardis had been appointed to the position in December after his predecessor, Joe Kanach, was fired mid-season for alleged misconduct.

The school's football season is scheduled to kick off August 30.

Officials expect to announce Leonardis' replacement before that time.

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