Charlottesville, Va. - Last week Pulaski County High School reported to the Virginia High School League (VHSL) office that its football program had violated the Out-of-Season Practice Rule. Penalties for this violation include a $200 fine and such other disciplinary action as the appropriate district committee or VHSL executive director may impose.

Based on the nature and scope of the violation, VHSL Executive Director Ken Tilley imposed the additional penalties of one-year warning for the football program, reducing the number of allowable football practice days to a total of 15 prior to the first game of the season, and a one-year probation for the football program such that it may not enter any playoff toward a district, regional or state championship nor enter any sanctioned event (jamboree).

Pulaski County appealed the probation penalty, and a hearing was conducted Thursday morning, July 1, 2010. As in every case that comes before the VHSL Executive Subcommittee, the appeal by Pulaski County was reviewed based upon its own merits in accordance with a thorough and structured process. After reviewing all information presented as well as testimony from school administrators and League staff, the subcommittee voted 5-0 to deny the school’s request for waiver of probation.

In addition to the sanctions noted, the subcommittee imposed an additional $800 fine and directed the principal and director of student activities from Pulaski County to meet annually with all of their coaches to review VHSL rules and regulations, coaching ethics and integrity. For the next three years the school is required to certify in writing to the VHSL office that this annual training occurred.

The subcommittee imposed the additional sanctions citing the blatant, egregious, flagrant nature of the offense and lack of institutional oversight and control. “This was no minor infraction,” said Tilley. “The nature and circumstances of the activities went far beyond what is permitted under VHSL rules. Extensive coaching and sport specific instruction were prevalent.”

All facts presented were carefully considered by the appeals subcommittee. After deliberation, the subcommittee arrived at a decision that it deemed fair and equitable under the rules and procedures of the League. Those rules are designed to serve and protect the best interests of all member schools and student participants.

“It is unfortunate whenever there are adverse consequences such as in this case, but we are confident that the Pulaski County administration, coaches, players and fans will respond in a way that will reflect positively on their entire school community,” said Tilley.