Lewisville residents will not see the Liberty Christian Warriors compete in the TAPPS Division I football playoffs after a state executive committee ruled a key player ineligible, effectively ending the team’s chance at a state title.
According to a report from the Dallas Morning News cited by the Crosstimbers Gazette, the player at the center of the dispute is wide receiver Jace Johnson. TAPPS determined Johnson violated the organization’s “follow the coach” rule after allegedly participating with Liberty Christian coach Antonio Griffin in the LionHearted Football 7‑on‑7 program.
The ruling, announced at a state executive committee hearing on Tuesday, requires Liberty Christian to forfeit every game in which Johnson played. Because Johnson appeared in all regular‑season contests, the Warriors must forfeit all eight wins, removing them from the postseason bracket. The team had been slated to open the playoffs on Friday against the St. Michael’s Warriors from the Austin area.
In addition to the forfeitures, TAPPS recommended that Coach Griffin be suspended from coaching for the remainder of the season. The season, however, has already concluded, so the suspension will take effect next year.
Liberty Christian issued a statement calling the decision “unfair and unjust,” saying the school provided “clear and unambiguous evidence” to refute the allegations. The school said it is “considering our various legal options” and will “continue to do everything we can to fight this unjust ruling.” The statement did not specify whether an appeal could be filed in time to re‑enter the postseason.
The Warriors finished the regular season with an 8‑2 overall record and a perfect 6‑0 mark in district play under new head coach Josh Martin. Martin took over after former coach Jason Witten left for the University of Oklahoma, where he was recently promoted to offensive coordinator. Witten’s son, Cooper Witten, a top state recruit, completed the season with Liberty Christian before committing to play for the Sooners.
What’s next: Liberty Christian’s athletic department plans to explore legal avenues to challenge the eligibility ruling. No official appeal deadline has been disclosed, and the TAPPS board has not indicated when a decision on any potential appeal might be made. Residents will be watching for updates as the school seeks to protect its football program and maintain its reputation within the Lewisville community.
Sources: crosstimbersgazette.com
