[goBIGblue82]

Thanks for that information, That proves what I posted why on earth would we want to keep any child from competing if it was not directed at him for punishment, If you can tell me how keeping A kid from playing anything will benefit that kid I would like for you to share it with me. If you will tell me who gains from keeping A child from playing, or who will it damage if they play, I would like to know, Maybe there is something I don't know about. I look forward to reading your post they are usually well received and informative, Personally I feel we should find ways to keep our children elgible however we in Ky (KHSAA) makes every effort to find ways to deny elgibility. THANKS

Let me start by saying I'm in no way trying to persuade your opinion of the topic. I understand your stance and there are pros/cons for both sides. First a few hypothetical scenarios. If a junior in high school is young enough to repeat his junior year and still fall under the KHSAA guide lines should they be permitted 5 years of high school athletics? If a 7th grade athlete wins state championship, named all-state, and plays in a all-american game what do they gain from holding back and playing against 7th graders again? Should a kid be permitted to compete for the same state championship 2 years in a row? What does a kid really gain from holding back, and can he not still obtain that from not playing during his hold back year?

My opinion is that is should be the parents and the parents only decision whether or not to hold their child back. However, being in their rights to hold their child back I believe it is feasible for the Schools or a governing body to limit a child from participating if holding back. It makes sense to limit eligibility to 1 year in each grade level. You asked how keeping a kid from playing would benefit anything. Honestly, it doesn't benefit anyone, but the benefit is the kid gaining a year to mature and develop his/her skill set. But, I don't think it could be considered punishment. Punishment would be like you previously stated that the kid would lose his senior year of eligibility. I would like to add, although it is my opinion that they shouldn't compete during their hold back I see no reason why they should not be allowed to practice with the school team. But, it is what it is, the rule is in place and just like all rules there are pros/cons and people will approve or oppose it.