Garces Memorial High School in Bakersfield, California, has forfeited four of its five victories after the California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) Central Section ruled two star players ineligible. The CIF reversed its earlier decision granting eligibility to brothers Carter and Bryce Hanson, who transferred from Liberty High School. The team, known as the Rams, now holds a record of 1–5 despite winning five games on the field.
Carter Hanson, a junior running back, is recognized as a top college football prospect with offers from several NCAA Division I programs, including UCLA and Oregon. He rushed for 400 yards and five touchdowns in the games played before the ruling. His brother, Bryce, a senior defensive back, had recorded eight tackles and two interceptions during the same period.
The CIF initially approved the brothers' eligibility on August 17, citing a valid change of residency. However, this decision was reversed on October 6, changing their status to denied for the remainder of the season. As a result, the Rams had to forfeit their wins against Tehachapi, Wasco, Fresno-San Joaquin Memorial, and North high schools.
The CIF Bylaw 202 requires that all information regarding a student’s eligibility must be accurate and complete, warning of serious consequences for any misleading information. The specific reasons for the reversal in the Hansons' eligibility have not been disclosed. Despite the challenges, the Rams secured a 20–16 victory in their only official win of the season against Bakersfield High School, although they faced a defeat in their season opener against Santa Maria-St. Joseph. The team is set to face Centennial on Thursday night.