A 20-year-old high school senior with Down syndrome buried his head in his hands and wept as a judge told him he's too old to play football for the school team.
U.S. District Judge Zita Weinshienk said she could not allow Gabriel Lane to play for the Wildcats of Greeley Central."I hope, Gabriel, that you'll have a really good year. Things will happen to the football team because of your inspiration," she said as Lane looked at her with bewilderment before starting to cry.
The 5-foot-3, 215-pound Lane practiced with the Wildcats, and the team named him honorary captain. He played tackle and guard during scrimmages.
But CHSAA bylaws prohibit players older than 19 from playing in high school sports to protect younger, smaller players from harm and maintain competition. Under Colorado's special education program, handicapped students can remain in school until they're 21.
The Colorado High School Activities Association said Lane failed to apply for a waiver to get around the rules and that there were no provisions to review the decision.
"All we wanted was for him to be allowed in a couple of plays," said his mother, Sally.
If Gabriel plays an official game without a waiver from the association, however, the team could be disqualified "and that's not fair to the team," she said.
John Borman, athletic director at the school, said Gabriel can still suit up and sit with the team, but he can't play.
"A rule is a rule," he said. "We understand they have to draw the line somewhere. Gabe's still part of the team."