Orchard Park Student Will Be Allowed To Play Football

An 18-year old fifth-year autistic student at Orchard Park High School will be allowed to  play with his school football team this season after State Education Commissioner MaryEllen Elia granted a stay while the case is appealed.  Earlier this summer Section VI ruled that Jacob Kohler was ineligible to play because students are limited to only four years of eligibility to play high school sports.

Jacob's parents appealed the ruling claiming that because of his disability their son wasn't physically or mentally capable of playing sports when he was a freshman and should be allowed to play.  Through the influence of State Senator Tim Kennedy and a petition signed by more than 2,300 people, Elia issued the stay on Thursday, one day before the start of the high school football season.

The appeal process could take up to 10 months, but by that time the football season will be over.