1. At the earliest possible time out following an alleged rule or regulation infraction, the coach must inform the referee and game chairman (if applicable that the game is being played under protest. The specific rule or regulation must be stated at this time then entered in the score book (or so noted in writing). The signatures of both coaches, officials and the game chairman, if applicable, shall be entered in the score book (or so noted in writing) along with the game score and time remaining.

2. Within forty-eight (48) hours of the alleged violation, a formal written protest must be submitted to the sports chairperson and copies forwarded to parties involved including the principals of both schools, the game officials and the game site chairman.

3. Before a protest is formally initiated it should be carefully considered, and then signed by he Superintendent, the Principal, and the Athletic Director.

4. As soon as possible but not later than the next scheduled playoff game affecting the schools involved, the Sports Chairman (or his designee) and not less than four (4) members of the Protest Committee, will meet with the parties involved in the protest (Superintendent, Principal, Athletic Director, Coach, Officials, Site Chairmen).

5. The Protest Committee will conduct a hearing and a transcript (or tape) of the proceedings will be taken.

6. Involved parties will have the right to listen to all testimony and cross-examine.

7. Witnesses will testify voluntarily. If this is not possible, a written-signed statement will be admissible.

8. All documents submitted in the hearing will be retained by the Protest Committee.

9. It shall be understood that involved parties may be accompanied by their Superintendent, Principal, Athletic Director, and Coach.

10. The Sports Chairperson (or his designee) will notify parties involved of the Protest Committee's decision as soon as possible but no later than the next scheduled contest affecting the teams involved.

 

Note #1: The Protest Committee's decision is final. (Refer to NYSPHSAA Handbook Standard Appeals Procedure).

Note #2: Time periods may be waived by mutual consent or if deemed necessary by the Protest Committee Chairperson.

Note #3: It is hereby understood that if a protest involves a school or a member of the Protest Committee, that member will be disqualified from serving on the Protest Committee.