ASHVILLE — The Ohio High School Athletic Association (OHSAA) has determined that officials mishandled an on-field altercation that led to the early stoppage of the Teays Valley High School football game on Friday, October 24.
The incident occurred during the second quarter when referees halted play following a brief scuffle between players. A formal review conducted by Beau Rugg, OHSAA Director of Officiating and Football Administrator, found that the situation was quickly and appropriately managed by both teams’ coaching staffs and game officials on site.
“I have viewed many fighting incidents, and I want to commend both coaching staffs for keeping substitutes on their respective sidelines,” Rugg said in his review. “Coaches and game management personnel reacted swiftly and correctly, and the players on the field did a nice job calming the situation. Everything was resolved in less than two minutes. This game should have been allowed to continue at that point.”
Rugg, along with Ohio Capital Conference Football Assigner Rob Brammer, concluded that the officiating crew did not properly handle the incident and that the decision to end the game prematurely was in error. Both also noted that Teays Valley and its opponent have long maintained strong records of sportsmanship and event management.
Rugg additionally expressed regret for any negative publicity that arose from social media posts about the game and confirmed that his office is addressing violations by members of the officiating crew.
Superintendent Kyle Wolfe praised Teays Valley’s athletes, coaches, and fans for their professionalism during the disruption.
“At Teays Valley, we take great pride in how our athletes and coaches represent our district,” Wolfe said. “Good sportsmanship and integrity are at the heart of what we do, and I’m proud of how our players handled a difficult moment with composure and class.”
Wolfe also expressed disappointment for senior players, band members, and cheerleaders whose final game at Viking Stadium was cut short.
“We thank our community for its continued support and for upholding the values of respect, teamwork, and sportsmanship that define Teays Valley,” Wolfe said.
