Welch Awaits Hearing

Harry Welch, the Canyon Country Canyon High football coach suspended for being responsible for an out-of-season practice, won a preliminary court battle in his attempt to regain his job.

A judge in San Fernando Superior Court granted Welch a temporary restraining order that directs the William S. Hart Union High School District to lift the 5 1/2-month suspension until another hearing, scheduled for Aug. 19.

However, District Supt. Clyde Smyth said the effect of the court action appeared to be limited because “in football, nothing really starts until Aug. 26.”

Welch, who conducted conditioning workouts with his players after securing the restraining order, was exultant. “I finally got due process,” he said.

Times staff writer James Quinn contributed to this story.