Archbishop Murphy Football Forfeits Four Games After Eligibility Ruling

Archbishop Murphy football lost four games on Friday after the Washington Interscholastic Activities Association Executive Board upheld a player eligibility violation.

The ruling converted three previous victories into losses. The Wildcats' overall record dropped to 5-4. Their league standing is now 4-4.

The WIAA determined that a student transfer from Woodinville violated Handbook 18.12.5. This rule restricts varsity eligibility if a student trains with a non-school team connected to the new school's coaching staff.

An Archbishop Murphy coach was involved with the Wipe Me Down Boyz 7-on-7 team. The coach is also the brother of the player in question. The WIAA found this connection sufficient to trigger the ineligibility penalty.

Jeff Latta, the school's athletic director, argued during the October 29 hearing that the coach had no role in the non-school program. He stated he was on-site only to support his brother.

Latta told the board that tracking every comment made by coaches to incoming students is challenging. He suggested the rule needs clarification to prevent similar confusion in the future.

The WIAA also placed the athletic department on one-year probation. This period ends on October 29, 2027. Latta must complete additional compliance training before the current school year concludes.

Archbishop Murphy remains eligible for the state tournament. The Northwest Conference confirmed the Wildcats will advance as one of five Class 2A representatives from District 1.

The conference also counted two opt-out games against Sultan and Lakewood as wins for the Wildcats. These teams chose not to play against the top-seeded opponent under league rules.

The school plans to appeal the decision. Legal counsel for the district indicated they will seek a permanent injunction in Superior Court. They argue the rule is arbitrary in its application.

The player may also file a direct appeal to the Superior Court within 30 days of the board's decision. State law requires the court to hear such cases de novo, meaning the case starts over without regard to the WIAA's finding.

Archbishop Murphy defeated Lynden 35-14 on Thursday night. The official forfeitures were confirmed hours after that game concluded. The team continues its season with a state title defense ahead.