Sand Springs Player Ruled Ineligible

Originally Published: Nov 5, 2009 8:24 PM CDT

Oklahoma Sports Staff

SAND SPRINGS, Oklahoma -- According to the Sand Springs Leader, a Sand Springs football player has been ruled ineligible by the Oklahoma Secondary Schools Athletic Association. As a result, the Sandites were forced to forfeit their Oct. 23 win over the Claremore Zebras, ending their hopes for a playoff berth.

The player in question is backup safety Cole Deo, a transfer from Sapulpa, who stepped in for the injured Michael Vann. According to a statement released by the Sand Springs School District, following his parents’ divorce, the student moved with his custodial parent to Sand Springs in January 2009 and enrolled in Charles Page High School.

Based on the details of his move, the school didn’t believe Cole needed to file a Hardship Waiver. The OSSAA rules state otherwise, citing if a student’s move involved a divorce, his eligibility would require the approval of a hardship waiver.

The school also stated its regret over the situation, particularly to the team who will consequently lose their opportunity to participate in post-season play.

Read the full statement issued by the Sand Springs School District.

The forfeit drops Sand Springs’ district record to 2-4, eliminating them from the District 6A-3 playoff hunt.