LHSAA Nixes Eligibility of Wildcats’ QB

Central High School has filed an appeal with the Louisiana High School Athletic Association, disputing its ruling that Central High quarterback Jared Hayes is ineligible to compete for the Wildcats in this, his senior season.

He played for McKinley High last season but only started part-time for the 3-7 Panthers.

LHSAA president Kenny Henderson told the Central City News that he ruled the Hayes’ family decision to move to Central earlier this year did not comply with LHSAA rules.  The family resides within the Central school district.  Henderson said that he had informed Central High of the three major reasons for his ruling.

Hayes participated in spring training with the Wildcats in May and started at quarterback for Central in the spring game against Northside.

Henderson said Central has the right to appeal his ruling to the Executive Committee of the LHSAA.  That body is composed of 25 members, including 18 principals, two coaches, an athletic director, a school board member, a parish superintendent, and a representative of the state Department of Education.  Henderson said he could call an emergency meeting of the committee next week to resolve the issue or the Executive Committee could consider the matter at its Sept. 4 Hardship Committee meeting.  Henderson said he recommends the Hardship Committee meeting, even though it is only two days before the first game of the season.  “A number of the members of the committee will be here in person, rather than by conference call, and that gives you the opportunity to present your case face to face,” he said.

Hayes impressed coaches with a solid performance in the spring game.  One coach said Hayes is a fine young man and a pleasure to coach.  If the appeal is rejected, Hays would have the option to return to McKinley and compete for that team.  But he reportedly intends to stay at Central, regardless of the outcome.

He is the son of Lionel and Tiffany Hayes.

The Wildcats play their opening game Sept. 6 against Istrouma.