Dougherty Trojans boys basketball team receives postseason ban

ALBANY — The Dougherty High School boys basketball team has received a postseason ban for the 2016-17 season and a $1,000 fine by the Georgia High School Association according to Jack Willis, assistant superintendent for support services for the Dougherty County School System.

The punishment comes after the school’s fourth infraction in two years

The most recent violation stemmed from playing an ineligible player. It was the second time this year that an ineligible player suited up for the Trojans.

According to Willis, the letter received by the Dougherty County School System from the GHSA said the punishment stemmed from infractions experienced in previous years. Willis said the letter stated that due to the previous infractions and severe warning status the school received earlier in the year, Dougherty would receive a postseason ban.

“We feel like it is a little much,” Dougherty High School Athletic Director Harley Calhoun said. “At the same time, the GHSA has to do what is in the best interest of everyone involved and we respect that.”

The Dougherty County athletic office asked the GHSA to re-evaluate a statement in the letter about the administrative oversight of the program according to Willis. The GHSA has yet to respond.

Dougherty was already forced to forfeit 16 boys basketball games earlier this season due to the first ineligible player. The Trojans were 8-8 at the time of the ruling. They also received a $750 fine by the GHSA.