[mcrowder]

TEXAS HIGH SCHOOLS TO PLAY WITH 2005 RULES

Austin and San Marcos, Texas April 28, 2006: For the first time since Texas high schools began playing football in 1920, they will not be playing under the annually-revised NCAA rules. In a joint statement today, the University Interscholastic League (UIL), the Texas High School Coaches Association (THSCA) and the Texas Association of Sports Officials - Football Division (TASO) announced that public high schools in Texas will play the 2006 football season using the NCAA rules from the 2005 season. ! Each year Texas, one of two states that uses NCAA rules for high school football, amends the collegiate rules for their high schools by creating a list of exceptions. The NCAA football rules book is typically published in June but will be delayed this year.



"After reviewing the proposed changes for this year, it is obvious that the rule changes are geared toward reducing the game duration and replay issues that are not a concern at the high school level" said Dr. Charles Breithaupt, UIL Assistant Director. D.W. Rutledge, Executive Director of THSC, added "The length of our games is much shorter than the college game so our coaches are not in favor of rule changes that reduce the number of plays per game. Schools are conducting spring practice now. Coaches would like be able to instruct their athletes regarding rule changes for the up coming season".



According to Michael Fitch, President of TASO-Football, the delay in printing the 2006 NCAA Rule Books is also a concern. "Our 'on-field' and regional rule clinics are already under way. Many local chapters are starting to conduct training sessions for new officials. Our state-wide annual meeting is in early July. Not having the new rule books for these rules sessions would severely impact their effectiveness in preparing for the new season". Fitch went on to say, "This issue was reviewed by the entire Football Board of Directors and the recommendation to stay with 2005 rules was unanimous."



Officials of all three organizations agreed that it is too soon to speculate on what impact this action will have on the 2007 season but agreed this action is the best course of action in preparation for the 2006 football season.