Canton Central Catholic advances to regional quarterfinals after Liberty disqualification

Canton Central Catholic High School will play in the second round of the Ohio High School Athletic Association playoffs after Liberty High School from Youngstown was disqualified for fielding an ineligible player. The Crusaders, who fell to Liberty 26 to 16 in the previous round, received the news that their opponents wore a player on the field who did not have an eligible jersey. The ruling sends Canton Central Catholic to the regional quarterfinals, where they will face Perry on November 6. The match is scheduled to be played in Lake County.

Crusaders head football coach Jeff Lindesmith stated that a Liberty fan alerted his staff to the jersey swap during the game. The coaching staff then contacted Liberty’s athletic director to report the error. Lindesmith noted that the athletic director informed the state of Ohio about the ineligible player later that same day. This quick communication led to the disqualification decision and the subsequent invitation for Canton Central Catholic to prepare for an immediate rematch.

The state directed the Crusaders to get ready for a trip to Perry for what is designated as Week 12 of the playoffs. Lindesmith described the situation as a rare opportunity in life to receive a second chance at something the team worked hard for. He emphasized that the extra game holds particular weight for the senior players on the squad. The coach said the group was extremely excited to play together one more time and represent the school again.

For many of the senior athletes, this upcoming game will be the final time they play football in their careers. Lindesmith noted that the chance to go out and compete one last time is a meaningful conclusion for their high school careers. The team is now focused on the November 6 date as they prepare to travel to Lake County. The Crusaders move to the regional quarterfinals against Perry, following the OHSAA's official ruling on Liberty's roster violation.