Carter Sheffield

Last Tuesday, prior to our state semi-final game, I was made aware that our athletic department had made an error in the handling of a GPA calculation for one of our student-athletes. This error was recognized by a member of our school staff, and was immediately self-reported to the UHSAA. The consequence for that error is a suspension of the head coach. We have accepted that consequence along with a fine and probationary period with no contest. System changes have also been implemented to prevent such mistakes in the future. In addition to those consequences, the UHSAA has added a second game to the suspension claiming that our first playoff game was also ineligible participation by that player. For this game, we were informed that this game was based on quarter 1 eligibility. Many schools in the state handled it the exact same way as well. As a result, we kept consistent with quarter 1 eligibility and withheld any player that was ineligible during quarter 1 from dressing and participating in this contest. I have remained silent and took the semi-final suspension to the chin while reckless comments are being directed at myself, our players and our community. I strongly disagree with the second game of the two-game suspension. Our players are being penalized for eligibility in both quarter 1 and quarter 2 for our first playoff game. No where were we being deceitful or trying to bend any rule for a competitive advantage. With that said, I strongly encourage the UHSAA to review these details, facts and willingness to cooperate and consider reversing its ruling on the second game of a two-game suspension. In the last few days, I’ve received hundreds of texts, calls and emails from former players, parents, coaches, teachers and administrators. The outpouring of support has been tremendous and I am very grateful for all of you. Interscholastic athletics is an amazing platform for student-athletes to develop relationships, skills and traits that last a lifetime. I am very confident in why I do what I do. For those that know me, you know how I treat people on a daily basis, the morals that guide me and the work ethic that I pride myself on. I would love nothing more than a chance to be on the field with my players as we compete for the state championship. Go Falcons! @UHSAAinfo @UtahFBCA @KSLSportsRewind @SlingintheP @desnewssports @skyridgefb