DUVALL, Wash. — Cedarcrest High School forfeited their scheduled game on Oct. 28 against Archbishop Thomas Murphy in Everett.
Cedarcrest is the fifth school to forfeit to Archbishop Murphy this year over player safety concerns. The other four forfeits were Cedar Park Christian, Granite Falls, South Whidbey, and Sultan.
Riverview School District Superintendent Dr. Anthony L. Smith sent this letter to the community regarding the scheduled October 28 game:
<strong><em>Dear Cedarcrest Community:</em></strong>
<strong><em>After completing a thorough review of whether to play or forfeit the October 28th Cedarcrest - Archbishop Murphy football game, the Riverview School District has decided to forfeit. The review included WIAA (Washington Interscholastic Activities Association) policies; other Cascade Conference School District decisions; and conversations with the Cedarcrest Administration, Athletic Director, and Coaches. The reason for forfeiture is a competitive imbalance between their student-athletes and ours. Our district's number one priority is the health and safety of our students within our mission to "educate children."</em></strong>
The announcement came just one day after Cedar Park Christian forfeited their game against Archbishop Murphy scheduled for October 14, citing player safety. That is also homecoming for Archbishop Murphy.
On Wednesday afternoon, Archbishop Murphy school officials released a statement.
AMHS has learned Cedarcrest High School will be forfeiting the football game scheduled for October 28th.
We have been blessed to receive such positive support from our parent and alumni communities. AMHS alumni are participating in an alumni vs alumni flag football game at Terry Ennis Stadium this Friday, October 14th. The AMHS football team will continue practicing this week and will support the AMHS Alumni on Friday. This is AMHS' homecoming week and the school and ASB with continue to celebrate homecoming festivities as planned.
We pride ourselves on our community and are aware many in it are impacted by our current situation. The Archbishop Murphy High School football team, cheer squad, pep band, and student body are all looking forward to the October 21st home game against Olympic High School. The school will be honoring seniors and their families during this game.
Coach and Athletic Director Jerry Jensen has been in conversation with Olympic High School's Athletic Director and is looking forward to a positive and safe experience for both teams.
We ask you to respect our privacy at this time while our students focus on their number one priority of academics. Our student-athletes continue to be models of professionalism, focus, and support for one another during this time.
Students and AMHS Alumni will be available for comment on Friday during the school's Homecoming festivities.
Archbishop Murphy will continue to hold homecoming festivities and an alumni game has been scheduled for Friday instead.
Previously players and school officials held a news conference to address the forfeits.
Cox Media Group
