Operating Code Interpretation - Futsal |
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Eligibility Ruling
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2011-12March 8, 2012I have been advised that several Futsal players run the risk of being negatively affected by Article I Section 5 Rule 4 of the Operating Code, which requires athletes to have appeared on a regular season game sheet by January 30 to be eligible for the ACAC Championship. The second of two Futsal tournaments took place from February 10-12, 2012, meaning that any athletes added to ACAC rosters after January 30 are not technically eligible for the ACAC Championship if the above rule is interpreted literally. I have been advised of one instance where an athlete was unable to compete for his school prior to January 30 due to work commitments. Relying on the literal interpretation of the Operating Code, the school determined that the player in question would not be eligible for the ACAC Championship as he had not appeared on a game sheet before January 30. The school then decided not to use a roster spot for that player during its February 10-12 matches. As a result, this player has not yet appeared on a game sheet this season. In my opinion, the above rule should be interpreted in favour of athletes added after January 30. Therefore, provided that Futsal players were added to an eligibility certificate prior to this weekend’s ACAC Championship, and provided that they meet all other ACAC eligibility requirements, they are eligible to participate in the ACAC Championship regardless of whether they have appeared on a game sheet this season. Similar to the ruling I issued earlier this season in relation to ACAC Curlers, it is my opinion that the above rule was not meant to apply to tournament sports and I ask the Governance and Finance Committee to consider an amendment to the rule to eliminate further confusion over its application. Sincerely, Bill Hendsbee |