Despite Taking Dim View of Starr, Taft Goes Light on Him : High school football: Coach keeps his job but is censured by principal for violating a state recruiting rule.

Taft High football Coach Troy Starr was granted a reprieve Thursday.

Starr, whose program was put on probation by the City Section after he violated a state recruiting rule, will not be dismissed as coach, Principal Ron Berz said.

“A mistake was made and we addressed the issue,” Berz said.

Starr’s status was jeopardized when Taft last month received an anonymous letter that detailed improper contact between Starr and Dante Clay, a junior high running back from Sherman Oaks. Berz ordered an internal investigation and the charges proved true.

The matter was brought to the attention of the City athletics office, which placed the program on probation for one year. Any further violations could result in forfeitures or sanctions.

Berz said he aired his grievances with Starr during a lengthy meeting Wednesday, considered his options overnight, and decided to retain the 32-year-old coach.

“I hired the coach,” Berz said. “I have confidence that he’ll move forward with the youngsters and the program in a positive way.”

Starr could not be reached for comment.

Starr was roundly criticized by rival coaches on two occasions last year for running up the score. Taft is 19-7 in his two seasons as coach.

Berz declined to elaborate on what punishment he would mete out if Starr again violates CIF rules.

The City Section is only permitted to issue sanctions against programs, not individuals. Berz made it clear, however, that the rules and regulations governing open enrollment and undue influence have been spelled out--at length.

“He knows the rules and regulations,” Berz said.

“But the proof in the pudding is that the mistake isn’t made again.”

City Commissioner Barbara Fiege said Thursday that the program will not be subject to further sanctions.

Clay, however, has been ruled ineligible to participate in athletics at Taft.

Clay, who attends Reed Middle School in North Hollywood, is eligible to play at other City schools, she said.