DES MOINES, Iowa — The boys basketball team at Des Moines Roosevelt High School has retroactively forfeited nine wins after a player was found to be in violation of the Iowa High School Athletic Association's "age scholarship rule".
In a letter to the community, Roosevelt's Director of Student Activities and Equity Andrew Wade said a player on the boys basketball team this season was actually ineligible due to IHSAA regulations.
The school discovered the discrepancy on Friday, Feb. 2, and reported the oversight on Monday. Feb. 5.
"Despite diligent efforts to rectify the situation and obtain appropriate documentation, we were unable to meet the association's requirements," Wade said in the letter. "Consequently, we must forfeit the nine wins in which this player participated between January 5th and February 2nd."
It is currently unclear which player was deemed ineligible. However, Wade stressed the player was not at fault.
"It was an honest misunderstanding regarding the documentation received, and we deeply regret any disappointment this may bring to our players, families, and supporters," Wade said in part.
Despite this setback, the school asserted its commitment to following ISHAA rules and ensuring they are in full compliance moving forward.
"Our top priority continues to be the well-being and success of our student-athletes, and we are unwavering in our support during this trying time," Wade writes.
Roosevelt was 17-4 on the year. They will play Indianola on Feb. 19 in the Class 4A Substate 8 bracket.