Owyhee, Idaho – In a significant turn of events, Idaho’s high school sports governing body has suspended Owyhee football coach Jason Burton for the remainder of the season due to the use of an ineligible player. The suspension was announced on Wednesday, which is just a day before Owyhee was set to face Timberline in a crucial playoff-qualifying matchup. The Storm currently holds a record of 5-3, as does Timberline.

The Idaho High School Activities Association (IHSAA) has also fined the school $1,500 and placed the team on probation for the next year. This punishment came after allegations were raised by the Boise football team regarding the eligibility of a player added to Owyhee’s roster prior to their October 11 game against Boise, which Owyhee won, 30-28.

According to a West Ada School District spokesperson, the assistant coaches will take over on game day, and coach Burton will not be allowed to participate in any playoff games if Owyhee advances. The district has yet to decide on a permanent interim coach should they make the postseason.

The controversy began when Boise filed a complaint asserting that the player involved had not completed the necessary practices to meet eligibility requirements for the game. IHSAA rules state that a player must complete 10 football-specific practices before participating in a game, but the definition of what constitutes a practice is somewhat ambiguous, leading to confusion during the investigations.

IHSAA Executive Director Chad Williams explained that while the 10-practice requirement is clear, the practice definitions could lead to differing interpretations. He indicated that a majority of board members felt uncomfortable with the idea of a forfeit for what they perceived as an unclear rule.

The IHSAA’s decision to change the initial forfeiture ruling allowed Owyhee to maintain its standings, even though it previously faced elimination from the playoff race after losing three consecutive games. Following the addition of the new player, the team has bounced back with two consecutive victories in the 6A SIC River Division.

As it stands, the outcome of the Timberline game will be pivotal for Owyhee’s playoff hopes. Should they win, they may secure a spot in the state playoffs; if they lose, their chances will rely on an at-large berth through the MaxPreps rankings.

As of now, Coach Burton has chosen not to comment on the situation.