A Pinal County, Ariz., judge issued a temporary restraining order putting the probation against Coolidge High School’s athletics department on hold.
As reported by Arizona Public Radio station KNAU on the campus of Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff, the restraining order allows Coolidge sports teams to continue competing in postseason games, including a 3A state semifinal between Coolidge and Snowflake, which Coolidge won, 62-48.
With their victory Saturday, the Bears advance to the state championship game against Palo Verde Magnet, though a date and time have yet to announced.
The AIA previously put all Coolidge High teams on a year-long probation following allegations that Coolidge supporters harassed and made racist remarks against players from Chinle High School.
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The AIA said its member schools are committed to the highest standards of respectful behavior and barred all Coolidge High teams from taking part in postseason competitions regardless of the sport.
Chinle leaders thanked the AIA earlier this week for issuing the probation but could not be reached by KNAU this weekend for comment following the judicial order.
Democratic Rep. Myron Tsosie represents the area in the State House and was one of the first people to publicize the incident. He told KNAU in a statement that the probation is necessary.
“Many of our fans and athletes have endured this type of behavior for many years and have fallen upon deaf ears,” Tsosie said. “I hope that this is a lesson learned for all schools who are members of the AIA. Let’s continue to show positive sportsmanship and enjoy the sports our students enjoy participating in.”
