Guilford County Schools reported four ineligible players to the North Carolina High School Athletic Association (NCHSAA) on Monday, Nov. 10. All four players dressed out for the Dudley High varsity football game against Southeast High on Friday, Nov. 7. One of the players actually played in the game, which Dudley won 50-21.

The four players were on the junior varsity team; that season ended on Thursday, Nov. 6. When that season is over, players may be moved up to the varsity level and may play in the playoffs.

However, according to NCHSAA rules, student-athletes may not participate in more than one game within one week. Even though only one of the four students played in the game, NCHSAA rules say students who dress for a game are considered participating.

The penalty for the violation is a $500 fine and Dudley must forfeit the Nov. 7 game. In addition, Dudley is not permitted to participate in playoffs.

Here’s why: A new NCHSAA rule says any game forfeiture that impacts a team’s record and seeding will also impact its participation in playoffs, if brackets are already finalized. Dudley’s forfeiture of the Nov. 7 game impacts its record and seeding, and since playoff brackets were finalized over the weekend, Dudley may not participate in the playoffs.

GCS and the school will consider any options available to appeal the NCHSAA decision.