AUSTIN — KFDM/Fox 4 has learned that Dallas ISD has submitted a formal complaint to the University Interscholastic League (UIL) and Texas Association of Sports Officials (TASO) after the Port Neches-Groves Indians defeated the South Oak Cliff Golden Bears to win the state championship football game.
“We can confirm Dallas ISD submitted a formal complaint to UIL and TASO (Texas Association of Sports Officials) related to the 5A Division II Championship Football game against Port Neches-Groves High School on December 16,” according to a statement released Wednesday to KFDM/Fox 4 by Julia Zachary, Communications Manager at the University Interscholastic League.
PN-G won its fourth state title by defeating South Oak Cliff, 20 to 17, at AT&T Stadium in Arlington on Saturday, December 16.
The state title rematch drew 33,913 fans to AT&T Stadium, according to the UIL’s official attendance.
A potential game-altering pass interference penalty in the final half of the fourth quarter against South Oak Cliff sparked controversy among South Oak Cliff fans. PN-G scored its only touchdown of the game with three minutes, 32 seconds left in the game.
“This complaint is not considered a protest and does not have an impact on the outcome of the game,” Zachary said.
Under the Texas Public Information Act, KFDM/Fox 4 has requested and is awaiting a copy of Dallas ISD’s formal complaint on behalf of South Oak Cliff High School that was submitted to UIL and TASO.
KFDM/Fox 4 has not reviewed the documents citing Dallas ISD’s specific complaints or grievances about the officiating at the PN-G vs. South Oak Cliff game.
“Please note that all officials are agreed upon by both parties in advance of a game and per the UIL Constitution and Contest Rules section 1204, a protest based on a game or contest official’s decision will not be considered,” Zachary said.
According to the UIL, the officials of the state championship game were Gary Godwin, Chris Baker, David Powell, Tyler Dabel, Gerald Harper, Rod Wood and David Oriol.
Texas Association of Sports Officials (TASO) Executive Director Michael Fitch said the organization is still investigating and had no comment when reached by phone Wednesday afternoon. He declined to release the document submitted by Dallas ISD and South Oak Cliff High School.
KFDM/Fox 4 left messages with Dallas ISD seeking comment, but the school district is closed for business for Christmas break and will reopen January 8.
KFDM/Fox 4 first reported on December 20 that Dallas ISD was “considering filing” a grievance over PN-G’s state championship win after the Indians defeated South Oak Cliff. At that time, PN-G head coach and athletic director Jeff Joseph declined to comment.
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