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Here's the response from the WIAA Executive Director, Mike Colbrese:
"WIAA Statement Regarding 2A Semifinal Penalty
12/2/2010
Reports of a ‘high school football player penalized for praying’ in the end zone following a touchdown have greatly exaggerated an official’s call and taken it out of context. During last Monday’s 2A state semifinal game, a player dropped to one knee and pointed skyward following a touchdown.
Based on national playing rule (NFHS 9-5.C) the referee considered the gesture ‘an excessive or prolonged act during which the player drew attention to himself’. That was the basis of the penalty with no inference to religion or a player’s right to offer a personal reflection of thanks for performing well.
While the official’s judgment was based on a national federation rule, the WIAA will continue to work with the Washington Officials Association to ensure consistent, enforcement and interpretations of playing rules for future contests.
--Mike Colbrese, WIAA Executive Director"
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"Ask not what your teammates can do for you. Ask what you can do for your teammates"--Earvin "Magic" Johnson
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