FHSAA asked to intervene in games involving Broward officials in consecutive weeks

NWF Daily News | By Jon Santucci and Emilee Smarr | September 12, 2023

In consecutive weeks, the Florida High School Athletic Association has been asked to intervene after games involving the Broward Football Officials Association ended in controversial fashion.

Cocoa High School appealed its 37-36 loss to St. Thomas Aquinas on Monday on the grounds that the officials and/or clock operator made multiple incorrect decisions that allowed the Raiders time to kick a last-minute field goal.

A week prior, Monarch High School asked the FHSAA if it could appeal its 33-32 loss to Atlantic after drive charts show the Eagles were given five downs on their final — and game-winning drive — in the fourth quarter.

Players and coaches on the Monarch sidelines reported celebrating after stops on second, third and fourth down only to be sent back to the sidelines by referees as both teams prepared for an additional. Atlantic went on to convert a game-winning score.

The FHSAA denied Cocoa’s appeal and informed Monarch that it would not be able to appeal its loss. In both cases, the FHSAA cited Bylaw 4.2.1, which states all game outcomes are final.

“The outcome (i.e., winners and losers) of all interscholastic contests are final, and cannot be reversed, except where the rules of the sport permit or in the case where a winner must forfeit its victory or points,” the Bylaw states.

Cocoa High School athletic director Mark Carstens said he has reached out to the FHSAA to find out if the officials from the Broward Football Officials Association would be held accountable for their actions.

Neither the Broward Football Officials Association nor the Florida High School Athletic Association immediately responded to messages seeking comment.