New London – Schools sources and a social media post say head football coach Johnny Burns missed New London High School’s Thanksgiving game at Norwich Free Academy over an on-field incident during the Whalers’ previous game versus Ledyard on November 12.

Burns, per a Facebook post, said he has been forced to resign.

“I have been put in a situation where I have been forced to resign as head coach, which is the only way I can see our players’ last game of the season without violating current expectations,” Burns wrote.

“In short, I was accused of a conduct matter during our last football game that was referred to for third-party assessment. The third-party quickly assessed the matter wasn’t worth their time of looking into further. It was communicated to me that I could quickly return to work.

“However, this certified communication was quickly trumped, disallowing my return. I was informed that the process of resolving the matter would ensue and was even told to expect communication on Monday, Nov. 21.

“But nothing. Crickets. I begged for a resolution so I could return to my players ASAP. No response. No meeting. No explanation. And trust me, this is the summarized version.”

New London athletic director Phil Orbe said he could not comment on a personnel matter.

The Whalers lost to NFA in the renewal of the nation’s oldest high school football rivarly, 27-8, and finished their season with a 2-8 record.

m.dimauro@theday.com