Vinson’s Hardship Waiver Is Denied

Junior Terrell Vinson, who played in Dana Point Dana Hills’ first football game of the season but is currently attending Irvine High, had his hardship waiver request for varsity eligibility this season denied by Southern Section Commissioner Jim Staunton.

Vinson, whose request is based on a concern for his safety, can appeal the commissioner’s decision to a hearing officer, and if it’s still denied, he can appeal to Marie Ishida, the California Interscholastic Federation’s state executive director.

Sophomore Luke Tracy, who also left Dana Hills for Irvine over the summer, cited the same reason in his waiver request, but was also turned down by Staunton.

Irvine Principal Gail Richards said Vinson was officially enrolled at Irvine on the second day of school, Sept. 7, though he arrived the first day to begin paperwork. Tracy began the school year at Irvine.

“I think they’re going to appeal [Staunton’s decision],” Richards said

Vinson carried 22 times for 197 yards in Dana Hills’ season opener in Hawaii on Aug. 25, scoring three touchdowns and a two-point conversion in a 30-14 victory over Pac-5. In 11 games for Dana Hills last season, Vinson rushed for 1,224 yards and 19 touchdowns.