Appeals Court Decision Allows OHSAA to Remove Glenville From Football Playoffs

COLUMBUS, Ohio — Cleveland Glenville has been removed from the football playoffs following a Thursday decision by the Eighth District Court of Appeals, according to the Ohio High School Athletic Association.

The OHSAA said the decision allows it to enforce its October 29 ruling sanctioning Glenville High School and Cleveland Metropolitan School District. Hunting Valley University School will advance to play at Salem in a Division III regional quarterfinal Friday night.

OHSAA Executive Director Doug Ute said removing students from tournament competition is difficult, but member schools must follow the rules and regulations they have adopted.

The association said Thursday’s decision reinforces language in Tuesday’s trial court order stating that determining which teams enter or advance in the playoffs falls beyond the court’s authority.

The dispute involved student participation eligibility. The OHSAA said it will continue working with Cleveland Metropolitan School District regarding participation opportunities for students who are not enrolled at the schools they represent.