Falls Forfeits Friday's Win Due to WIAA Violation

The Menomonee Falls Indians' historic boys basketball victory over West Allis Friday never happened, according to the history books.

According to a news release from the Menomonee Falls School District sent at 5:45 p.m. Thursday, the game played on Jan. 13 is now a forfeit due to an athletic code violation by a member of the team.

On Jan. 12, the district learned of a violation of the athletic code by the player. That student appealed the decision, but due to unforeseen circumstances the appeal couldn’t be heard until Jan. 17, according to the release. The district’s athletic code doesn’t specifically address the eligibility of a player during the appeals process.

However, WIAA regulations prohibit an athlete from playing while the appeals process is ongoing. That player suited up and hit the court against West Allis Central Friday.

“The district reviewed this matter with the district’s legal counsel and officials at WIAA before reaching the conclusion to forfeit the game,” the district stated. “Unfortunately because the athlete in question was permitted to play in the game on Jan. 13, even though the appeal was pending at the time, that game must now be forfeited.”

It is not clear what the specific violation was. However, the district’s code of conduct clearly outlines a scale of punishments for a variety of offenses by an athlete. The district intends to revise its code of conduct to incorporate the restriction with athletes amid an appeal.

“The district takes full responsibility for the good faith but erroneous decision to allow the athlete to participate…” the district stated.

On Friday, the Indians defeated West Allis Central 66-47 Friday. In the game, JP Tokoto set the school scoring record, but will need to try again Friday against West Allis Hale.