On Nov. 18 the SHS boys basketball team was ruled ineligible by the IHSAA for the sectional tournament due to a violation of rule 20-1 that prohibits schools from recruiting. Not only were they ineligible for the tournament, but head coach Eric Brand was also suspended for two games, the athletic department was placed on probation for one year, and student N.P.L. was ruled ineligible for the season.

Today that ruling was changed. 

After SHS sent in an appeal to IHSAA, they scheduled a hearing for the appeal for this afternoon. This morning the IHSAA released a statement regarding a compromise between SHS and the IHSAA. 

“In light of the new information, and in the spirit of compromise, the IHSAA has agreed to accept a suspension of the varsity coach from January 2020 to the end of this season, including the IHSAA tournament, so that the varsity team may compete in the 2020 IHSAA boys basketball tournament,” the statement read. 

With Brand’s extended suspension, the IHSAA granted the SHS boys basketball team a chance to play in the IHSAA tournament at the end of this season. 

In an email sent out to parents of basketball players this morning, SHS says they recognize their misguidance to Brand throughout the process.

“(SHS) Administration and Athletic Department recognize its shortcomings in providing proper guidance to Coach Brand through the F-1 Visa process. Therefore, (SHS) Administration is reviewing the F-1 Visa process to ensure against any future infractions,” the email read.

Brand, basketball players and athletic directors have declined to comment following this morning’s ruling.