Ejecting a Coach before a game?

[brumey1107]

This occurred this weekend and wanted opinions on how others have handled similar situations in the past.

Scenario: Pony League Mustang Level (9 - 10 yo boy's) playoff game. 25 minutes before game we have coin flip to determine who is home team and to get infield going. After that takes place I leave field and stand behind low-level bleachers - but able to see field. While standing there paying no attention to anything in particular I hear "..the biggest game of the year and you're sitting on the F_ _ _ _ _ G bench!!"

After taking a second or two I realize it is the visiting coach saying this to one of the players sitting in the dugout. There might have been one other player in the dugout but not the whole team. Since I'm not on the field and it's before the game and still in shock by what I heard I tell the coach that I don't want to hear anything like that again or you’re gone! He replies with a “YES, SIR!"

I repeat my concern during the plate meeting for good sportsmanship as well.

So, naturally, the question is should I have tossed him at that point? Do we have the authority to do so at that point? You're views are all welcome.

The league has been notified of his action.

Thank you for your views and input!