The Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA) have given Hector Clavijo a one-year suspension from coaching. He was in violation of his Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) guideline by unlawfully accepting a hefty bribe.

The former head coach of the Santaluces Community High School acted as an unlicensed athletic agent and violated local and state policies.

He was under investigation by the Office of Inspector General and the Palm Beach County School District's HR Department.

According to a report by Palm Beach Post, Clavijo had exploited his relationship with the student athlete and accepted $7,000. The amount of $5,000 came via bank transfer and $2,000 via the transaction app, Zelle.

The report also states that the high school’s principal, Dr. Tameka Robinson, sent out an email on May 10 stating that sanctions have been issued against Clavijo.

“This transition follows a FHSAA investigation regarding Coach Hector Clavijo and violations of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) protocols,” the email stated.

However, it is unclear from the email whether the football program alone or all Santaluces sports programs are being placed on administrative probation.

While the FHSAA has not yet clarified the query, the high school appointed assistant coach Samuel Putmon as the interim coach for the spring season.

He will also act as HC for the spring jamboree set to be held on May 14. This development comes after an investigation that has been ongoing for a year.

Clavijo Under Investigation Since 2025

FHSAA Executive Director Craig Damon confirmed that an investigation was launched into Hector Clavijo following a complaint in July 2025, according to On3's report.

By acting as an unlicensed athletic agent, Clavijo prohibited Bylaw 9.9 of the NIL guidelines. It states that “No school employee, athletic staff member, or representative of a school’s athletic interests (boosters) may engage in NIL representation.” 

Apart from violating the Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA), Clavijo also acted against the state law and county district policy. 

Under Calvijo's coaching tenure, Santaluces Community finished with a 6-4 record last season. They were ranked as the No. 180 on the 2025 Florida High School Football Massey Rankings.  

What are your thoughts on this development? Tell us in the comments.

Read more at the Michigan Football Community

Written by

Akanksha Biradar

Edited by

Rishab Nandi