The 3-0 record that the Clarkston football team has started the season with will now look a bit different after having to forfeit its first two games because of putting an ineligible player onto the field.

Clarkston athletic director Dan Fife found that there was an academically ineligible playing in the first two games and rightfully brought it to the attention of the Michigan High School Athletic Association after the second game of the season.

"When we found it, we knew we were in violation," Fife said. "Then the MHSAA looked at the situation and ruled we were in violation."

The forfeited games included a 28-21 win over Rochester Adams and a 34-7 win over West Bloomfield. The forfeits were first discussed with the players on Saturday. Fife sees an opportunity in the situation as a teaching tool in the ways of accountability.

"It was a tough thing for the kids for a few days," Fife said. "But they seem to understand. If we teach our kids to do the right things and don't abide by the rules, were aren't doing the right thing. If we make mistakes, we fess up"

No. 3 Clarkston forfeits first two football games for playing an ineligible player
Jared Purcell | MLive.com, September 13, 2011 1:36 p.m.

Today, Clarkston debuted at No. 3 in the Associated Press Div. 1 poll with a 3-0 record.
"We have great seniors and coaching staff," Fife said, "Our kids will move forward."
Clarkston will travel to play Troy this Friday night at 7 p.m. with what is now a 1-2 record.
"We made a mistake and brought it forward," Fife said. "Now it's time for us to move forward.