Matzie lauds grant of preliminary injunction to keep Quips in Class 4A

Ruling prevents team from being bumped to Class 5A under PIAA’s competitive-balance rule

Rep. Robert Matzie    May 23, 2024 | 4:27 PM

AMBRIDGE, May 23 – State Rep. Rob Matzie issued the following statement today in response to news that Beaver County Common Pleas Judge James Ross has granted Aliquippa School District’s request for a preliminary injunction that will stop the Aliquippa High School football team from being bumped from Class 4A to 5A under the PIAA’s competitive-balance rule:

“Today’s ruling is a temporary victory not just for Aliquippa football, but for all student athletes across our commonwealth. The court clearly identified player safety as the primary factor in its determination. This is the core issue that I, and many others, have cited as the overriding reason for the Quips to remain in 4A.

“In addition, the court found that Aliquippa ‘has established a likelihood of success on the merits’ of their case, which further speaks to the need for an overhaul of the PIAA competition classification formula. In that light, I will continue to work – through the legislative process if necessary – toward a more fair and equitable method of classifying our schools for athletic competition.”

The preliminary injunction was granted pending a final determination on the merits of the case.

The team was moved to Class 5A after winning the state title. After losing an appeal with the PIAA, the school district filed suit to prevent the move.