Tarbut V’Torah Is Ruled Out of Playoffs

Tarbut V’Torah High was knocked out of the Division V-A boys’ basketball playoffs on Tuesday when the Southern Section ruled the Lions would have to forfeit a game against West Hills West Valley Christian that was scheduled first for last Friday, then Monday.

Tarbut V’Torah refused to play on Friday, citing religious reasons. Then, on Monday, school principal Ahuva Halverstom prohibited the team from traveling to Sherman Oaks for the game because of the rain.

Athletic Director Cindy Schaaf said Halverstom made her decision over the objections of Coach Patrick Roberts after she received several phone calls from parents who were concerned about traffic and weather conditions.

“I’m feeling bad for the kids and kind of embarrassed about this,” Schaaf said. “This team has come a long way since we opened three years ago and team members are having a difficult time dealing with the decision. I guess we just have to get over it and try to move on.”