Opelousas High football coach files lawsuit against LHSAA after team loses first state title due to an ineligible player, resulting in a one-year probation and $400 fine.

By the Numbers
  • Opelousas High was stripped of its first state football title.
  • Jimmy Zachery placed on a one-year administrative probation and fined $400.
Yes, But

The lawsuit claims the penalties were imposed without fair notice and deprived the coach of due process rights.

State of Play
  • Lawsuit seeks a restraining order against penalties, requiring defendants to justify on April 16.
  • Opelousas High appealed the original ruling on March 14 and lost.
What's Next

The defendants have until April 16 to contest the restraining order, potentially impacting the enforcement of penalties.

Bottom Line

The lawsuit challenges the LHSAA's decision, highlighting concerns of due process violations and potential impact on the coach's future in the field, calling for a reevaluation of the imposed penalties.