A judge in Ohio has ruled in favor of the OHSAA, denying an injunction in a case filed by a high school football player to reinstate his eligibility.
A Franklin County judge has denied a preliminary injunction sought by Todd and Kathy Alles, the parents of high school football player Austin Alles, in their lawsuit against the Ohio High School Athletic Association (OHSAA). The ruling means Austin will remain ineligible to play football for the rest of his sophomore season at Bishop Watterson High School, according to the Columbus Dispatch's Anna Lynn Winfrey.
The Alles family sued after OHSAA rejected Austin’s transfer exemption request this year, which followed his departure from Dublin Coffman High School due to what he described as a “toxic culture” under former coach Geron Stokes. Austin testified about verbal abuse and unsafe conditions, including being forced outside in cold weather while recovering from a concussion.
Judge Stephen McIntosh ruled that the plaintiffs failed to show OHSAA’s decision lacked substantial evidence or violated the law. He also found no proof of “irreparable harm” to Austin and emphasized the importance of upholding OHSAA’s bylaws.
The ruling does not end the case as a full trial is scheduled for August 2026. OHSAA attorney Joe Fraley stated the organization followed its rules, while Austin’s attorney, Sam Shamansky, argued that Dublin Coffman administrators ignored misconduct.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY High School Sports Wire: Player ineligible as judge rules for OHSAA, denies injunction
Category: General Sports
