March 21, 2011

The Western Albemarle football team has been cited by the Virginia High School League for an out-of-season practice violation.

The following sanctions have been placed on the program. The Warriors have been issued a VHSL warning and fine, a reduction to 15 preseason practices prior to the 2011 season and a reduction to one scrimmage prior to the 2011 season. The football team will not forfeit any wins and will be eligible for all 2011 contests and postseason play.

In a statement issued by an Albemarle County Public Schools spokesperson, the school is cooperating fully with the VHSL, and will continue to work to ensure that all VHSL rules and regulations are adhered to.

“The violations occurred in connection with two dates when coaches unintentionally violated rules pertaining to ‘open gyms’ as defined within the Virginia High School League's Out-of Season Practice Rule,” Western Albemarle athletics director Steve Heon told CBS19. “We consider this an inadvertent mistake and are moving forward.”

"Western Albemarle's conduct was exemplary in how it
reported the violation and in its cooperation with VHSL staff throughout
the entire process," said VHSL communications specialist Mike McCall.

Western Albemarle finished 2010 with a 4-7 record and lost in the first round of the Region II playoffs, after winning the Jefferson District title and earning a playoff berth in 2009.