Game called due to fighting

[ajmc]

No idea what NCAA rules regarding forfiture might be, but under the NFHS code, 1-1-10 advises, "The referee's decision to forfeit a game is final".

NF: 1-1-8, referencing the officials jurisdiction parameters includes the following, "State Associationsmay intercede in the event of unusual incidents that occur before, during or after the game officials jurisdiction has ended or in the event that a game is terminated prior to the conclusion of regulation play."

Whether the incident provoking a decision to terminate a contest is a fight, brawl or full fledged riot would certainly have an effect on whatever decision was ultimately rendered. Common sense and the judgment of game officials to decide whether, or not, resuming play makes any sense after an incident is based on the continued safety of game participants.

Decisions on how the contest should ultimately be classifed (win, loss, forfeit, rescheduled continuation) would be made by the appropriate management level after the safety factors have been accounted for.

[Dakota]

Another article on the game:

Eagle Pass Business Journal Referees stop Eagles football game with Laredo United after two bench clearing brawls

[Texas Aggie]

I can't imagine ending a Varsity game due to fighting.

Fighting between 2 (or a small number) of players, yes. Fighting that leads to bench clearing lunacy, I can't imaging NOT suspending the game. It just depends -- if you think the crew has control by whatever means, continue. But if not, suspend the game and let UIL and the district committee work it out. You can't go wrong ruling in the favor of safety and not risking further out of control antics.