School District Confirms Forfeits : Laguna Beach Blames Misinterpreted Data for Error

Laguna Beach Unified School District officials have confirmed that the Laguna Beach High football team must forfeit three of its four victories for using an ineligible player.

Following a district investigation, it was revealed Thursday that the school had used a 14-year-old player in its first four games, contrary to CIF Southern Section rules. The school has forfeited victories over Buena Park, Elsinore and Costa Mesa.

Laguna Beach does not have to forfeit its 20-13 victory over University last week because the sophomore in question did not play.

Dr. Bill J. Barnes, Laguna Beach Unified School District superintendent, said in a prepared statement: “After reviewing the completed eligibility list of its fall athletic teams roster, it was determined that one Laguna Beach High School student failed to meet the age eligibility requirement and has been declared ineligible to play on the varsity football team.

“This unfortunate situation was due to a misinterpretation of computer data by the high school administration.”

Barnes added that the player in question was listed on the school athletic roster as having been born in 1970. It was assumed by school officials that the player was 15 years old and eligible, he said.

The player, however, was born in November of 1970, meaning that he is 14 and ineligible.

Laguna Beach’s record is 1-4 overall and 1-1 in the Sea View League. The Artists play host to Woodbridge tonight at Guyer Field in Laguna Beach.