Move over, Connor Stallions; you have company…
In a story reminiscent of the 2023 Michigan Wolverines’ sign-stealing scandal and the 2007 New England Patriots “Spygate,” a Texas high school coach has been suspended for allegedly recording opposing teams’ signals.
Palestine Westwood head coach Richard Bishop has been suspended for the remainder of the 2024 season following allegations of videotaping opponents’ signals during scouting. The District 9-3A Division I Executive Committee (DEC) ruled the violations as “intentional, serious, and egregious” breaches of fair play. Along with Bishop’s suspension, the DEC mandated that Westwood forfeit all district games, including future ones, and banned another district employee from attending athletic events for the rest of the season.
The Panthers have been a program on the rise. After years of under .500 seasons, Westwood had a great 9-3 season last year. This year, they are 7-0 and favored in their remaining three games, with a showdown on November 1 with Fairfield, which appeared as it would be for first place in the district, before being forced to forfeit the games.
Westwood plans to appeal the ruling to the UIL State Executive Committee (SEC). With only three weeks left in the regular season before playoffs, the UIL SEC is expected to schedule a hearing soon to address the appeal.
