CHARLOTTE — A high school athletic association is standing by its decision to disqualify a runner for his hand gesture as he crossed the finish line at the state championship.
Officials said they warned Mallard Creek senior Nyan Brown before the race, prior to the disqualification that stripped the school of their fifth title. Brown’s coach said he was holding up the No. 5 as he crossed the finish line.
The North Carolina High School Athletic Association reiterated its stance in a new statement on Tuesday when it said it considers the decision officials made at the track meet final.
However, under state law, Mallard Creek can still appeal the call with an independent board appointed by the state superintendent - a process that’s underway now.
That process is outlined in the Board Policy Manual’s Policy ATHL-013.
Within the policy, it states that the appeal board can expedite the process if the ruling affects a coach or student-athlete’s ability to participate.
That’s not the case here.
The appeal comes after the state championship, where Mallard Creek was awarded second place.
Head coach Sam Willoughby expressed frustration Monday, recalling other celebrations he witnessed.
“Oh, there are several celebrations even worse than what Nyan did,” Willoughby said.
“I don’t want to throw anyone under the bus, but if you’re going to be consistent with the rules, please do that. Apply it to everyone, not just Mallard Creek.”
In a statement from Brad Alford, Director for the Office of Athletics with the NC Department of Instruction, he confirmed the board has the appeal and is currently reviewing it.
They’ll hand down their decision in the next 30 days.
North Carolina Department of Public Instruction statement:
The Independent Interscholastic Athletics Appeals Board has received an appeal from Mallard Creek High School regarding a ruling at the State Track & Field Meet. State Board of Education Policy ATHL-013 outlines a detailed process for reviewing appeals of decisions by an athletics rule administrator, in this case the NCHSAA. The Appeals Board is currently reviewing the appeal and will issue a decision within 30 days. Since the appeal remains pending before the Appeals Board, we are unable to comment further on the case at this time.
NCHSAA statement:
Over the past several days, the conclusion of the 8A Men’s Track and Field Championship has generated significant discussion across North Carolina and beyond. The NCHSAA recognizes and understands there is deep disappointment experienced by the student-athletes, coaches, and the school community involved.
As previously stated, officiating decisions made during competition are judgment calls administered by certified meet officials under NFHS playing rules and NCHSAA rules relative to unsporting behavior and actions, and are considered final decisions. The Association appreciates the efforts of the officials who are tasked with applying and enforcing those rules during our championship events.
Under state law, an aggrieved party may challenge the decision of an official that results in disqualification by appealing to an independent appeals board appointed by the State Superintendent of Public Instruction. This process is intended to provide a fair opportunity for a thorough review of the officiating decision. Following the established appeals process outlined in the NCHSAA Handbook and state procedures, Mallard Creek High School has exercised its right to such an appeal through the Independent Interscholastic Athletic Appeals Board administered by the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction.
The NCHSAA respects the right of member schools to utilize that process and appreciates the importance of ensuring all concerns are heard through the appropriate review structure. Because that process is underway, the NCHSAA will not provide further public comment regarding the specifics of the matter.
©2026 Cox Media Group
/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/cmg/LH3JSJEF3VBLRJLJQESEAG34AM.png)
