Narbonne Football Team Hit with Ineligibility Ruling
After waiting 50 days to play a high school football game on Friday night because four Marine League coaches chose to forfeit games because of alleged rules violations, Narbonne got more bad news before its City Section Open Division playoff game against Dorsey on Friday night.
Ineligibility Ruling Affects Seven Players
The City Section has declared seven players ineligible, City Section Commissioner Vicky Lagos said Friday following a joint investigation by the Los Angeles Unified School District and the City Section. Lagos declined comment as to the reason for player ineligibility.
Background on the Investigation
Narbonne hadn’t played a game since Sept. 27 after receiving four forfeit victories and having an idle week. The actions taken by the coaches prompted LAUSD to investigate, according to Carson coach Mike Christensen. Narbonne has had 24 transfers into the football program in the last year, more than any other school in the City Section.
Coach’s Reaction
“I’m glad they looked into it,” Christensen said. “At least there was action. ‘Can we look into this a little closer?’ It’s about the ethics of the City Section.”
Narbonne’s Playoff Status
Narbonne received the No. 1 seed for the eight-team Open Division playoffs.
Athletic Administrator’s Uncertainty
Athletic administrator Victoria Sanders said she was uncertain why the players were declared ineligible.
Conclusion
The ineligibility ruling is a significant setback for Narbonne, which was expected to be a strong contender in the playoffs. The team will need to adjust its roster and strategy to compensate for the loss of seven players. The City Section’s investigation and subsequent ruling are a reminder of the importance of maintaining ethical standards in high school sports.
FAQs
Q: Why were the seven players declared ineligible?
A: City Section Commissioner Vicky Lagos declined to comment on the reason for the ineligibility.
Q: What is the significance of the ineligibility ruling?
A: The ruling affects Narbonne’s chances in the playoffs and requires the team to adjust its roster and strategy.
Q: What is the background on the investigation?
A: The investigation was prompted by four Marine League coaches who chose to forfeit games due to alleged rules violations. Narbonne has had 24 transfers into the football program in the last year, more than any other school in the City Section.
Q: What is the reaction of the coaching community?
A: Carson coach Mike Christensen expressed support for the investigation and the City Section’s actions, stating that it’s about the ethics of the City Section.
