John Marshall forfeits boys varsity football game due to lack of eligible players
VENN
RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- The John Marshall Justices have forfeited their upcoming boys varsity football game against the Northampton Yellowjackets due to a lack of eligible players.
On Tuesday, Oct. 14, John Marshall High School Athletics announced that its boys varsity football team was facing a "significant reduction in eligible players" due to "recent player ejections" and the Virginia High School League's (VHSL) mandated 30% game suspensions.
"With only four games remaining, this directly impacts our ability to safely and competitively field a full team," John Marshall Athletics said.
For these reasons, the Justices will not take on the Yellowjackets on Thursday, Oct. 16.
"During this time, our focus will be on addressing player and coach conduct, reinforcing accountability and rebuilding our team culture," John Marshall Athletics said.
John Marshall Athletics did not provide any additional information on why players may have been ejected. Per VHSL policy, players can be ejected for unsportsmanlike behavior. This can include things like foul or abrasive language, or the use of racial slurs and/or hate speech.
Notably, player ejections in VHSL boys varsity football for the use of a racial slur and/or hate speech doubled in 2025 over 2024, per an August report from the league.
"Thank you for your commitment to the John Marshall Football Program and for helping us foster a safe, positive and competitive environment for all student-athletes," John Marshall Athletics said.
