FAIRFAX COUNTY, Va. – Tensions are rising in the local football community as several high school coaches from Fairfax County have expressed their readiness to forfeit playoff games if Hayfield High School is allowed to participate in the postseason. Recently, a judge reinstated Hayfield for the playoffs following a controversial court decision.
The troubles began when the Virginia High School League (VHSL) suspended Hayfield from postseason play for a period of two years. The suspension was due to allegations that Hayfield engaged in improper recruiting practices. However, this sanction was temporarily lifted by the ruling of a judge, allowing the team to continue competing.
In response to this development, coaches from six playoff teams within the VHSL Region 6C addressed their collective concerns through an open letter. They highlighted that “a team that was engaged in conduct that violated the VHSL rules” should not be eligible to compete in the playoffs. The letter reiterates that the independent investigation conducted by VHSL confirmed multiple violations on Hayfield’s part which led to the initial two-year ban.
Amidst these discussions, many of the coaches are considering various forms of protest, including the possibility of forfeiting their own playoff games if Hayfield is permitted to continue. One concerned parent from Hayfield, Ayoud Khalikyar, stated, “If they’ve done something wrong, rules are rules and they should play by the rules.”
The coaches opposing Hayfield’s reinstatement stress that this decision was not made lightly. They are currently consulting with parents, community members, and senior athletes—those who have the most at stake in these upcoming games. The group plans to announce their final decision later this week, as the pressure continues to mount over the fairness of the postseason.
