Estero High School won the program's first district beach volleyball title on Wednesday…via email.
Gulf Coast defeated LaBelle 3-2 in the District 1A-23 semifinals on Tuesday, setting up a final game against the Wildcats. However, the Sharks were stripped of the win due to a lineup violation.
Gulf Coast violated FHSAA Handbook Rule 4.19.2.2.1 regarding illegal lineups. The rule states, “Once a pair is submitted, players may move up or down one line (court pair) independently or as a pair according to the rules, and the first line submitted before the next match. Coaches are allowed to: In case of injury or illness, use a substitute player. Substitutes may play in pairs or as individuals, but may not play above line 4 or line 5. ”
So, for example, a pair or individual playing on the second pair of a team can go down and play on the third court, or up and play on the first court, but can go down and play on the first court. 4 means it cannot be played on court.
“It's an unfortunate situation,” Estero Beach Volleyball Coach John Bunn said. The team was scheduled to host the regional final Thursday afternoon, but received the news via email Wednesday. “The FHSAA's decision hurt the kids on three teams, including over 30 girls. It's a disappointing decision. My team worked hard to win a district championship on the sand, not a bye. I have been working hard to
Gulf Coast was competing for a postseason berth as an eighth or seventh seed, but Tuesday's mistake puts the Sharks and their playoff hopes in jeopardy. Gulf Coast could have advanced to the postseason with a complete victory over LaBelle, who is ranked No. 51 in the state, but they are currently in the bubble and will likely be eliminated from the first team.
Gulf Coast coach John Alvarez addressed athletic director Alan Scott's comments.
“After being informed that there was a rule violation during the district semifinal game, Gulf Coast was notified and accepted the forfeiture of the game,” Scott wrote in a text. It's the state championship. ”
The Wildcats will advance to the postseason in Class 1A Region 6, with potential opponents being Port Charlotte or LaBelle. Ban is hoping to see the latter on Monday, which in retrospect could become a de facto district championship battle.
“I hope we play against LaBelle on Monday, so our district championship will never be in question,” Ban said.
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