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SPOKANE, Wash. — Spokane Public Schools is sounding the alarm and warning parents and students of illegal recruiting.
According to a Spokane Public Schools email and the Washington Interscholastic Athletics Association, illegal recruiting is trying to entice student-athletes to either move schools or stay at a school based on athletic talent or ability. And, according to Spokane Public Schools’ email, many parents are unaware this is happening.
Lewis and Clark High School Principal and Greater Spokane League President Ivan Corley says many parents may be unaware because the legality is a very fine line.
“The average neighbor sees ‘Hey, this kid just walked out the door wearing an LC jersey. But we’re in Medical Lake’!” said Corley.
What may look like a simple transfer could really be a move or a hardship that the school cannot legally disclose. Additionally, “recruiting” only applies if a student is offered something in exchange for their skill and talent.
“Is it a coach contacting a family or a family contacting a coach? Is it parents, at their book club or sitting at church or what have you?” said Washington Interscholastic Activities Association (WIAA) President Mick Hoffman.
Corley says recruiting most frequently happens when a club team that is not affiliated with school athletics wants to stay together.
“It is exciting in those moments when you’re having success at a club or high school level, kids do envision, like ‘Wouldn’t it be cool if we were all at the same high school?'” said Corley.
Hoffman says illegal recruiting poses a risk to the competitive balance of leagues.
“What do parents need to know? 1.3% of students actually earn scholarships,” said Hoffman. “And, of those, a very small percent earn division I, and an even smaller percent earn a full scholarship. So, don’t chase ghosts.”
Spokane Public Schools says it’s important to communicate openly with your student athletes about fair play and avoiding recruiting situations. And if parents suspect any recruiting violations, they should report them to Spokane Public Schools through their Let’s Talk platform.
