Coolidge Wins 3A Playoff Game After Court Order

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The Coolidge High School boys basketball team obtained a court order on Friday to play in their 3A semifinal playoff game against Snowflake, after the Arizona Interscholastic Association had placed the entire Coolidge athletics program on probation following fan misconduct at a previous game. Coolidge then went on to win the game 62-48, led by a strong performance from freshman Turner Armstrong, to advance to the 3A championship game.

Why it matters

This case highlights the tensions between high school sports governing bodies, school districts, and the courts when it comes to disciplinary actions and eligibility. The AIA's decision to place Coolidge on probation raised questions about due process and the ability for schools to appeal such rulings, leading Coolidge to seek a temporary restraining order to allow them to continue in the playoffs.

The details

Coolidge obtained a court order on Friday, February 27th, to allow them to play in the 3A semifinal game against Snowflake the following day. This came after the AIA Executive Board had moved Snowflake into the championship game, giving Coolidge a forfeit loss, due to fan misconduct at a previous Coolidge game. No Coolidge players or coaches were involved in the actions that led to the probation, which the AIA said was focused on crowd control issues. Coolidge then went on to defeat Snowflake 62-48, led by 6 three-pointers from freshman Turner Armstrong.

• Coolidge obtained a court order on Friday, February 27th, to play in the 3A semifinal game.
• The 3A semifinal game between Coolidge and Snowflake was played on Saturday, February 28th.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The AIA Executive Board will revisit Coolidge's probation in March to determine if it can be reduced if the school shows it has taken corrective measures to address the crowd control issues.