Independence High School’s football program forfeited its season opener against James F. Byrnes on Friday night according to recent reports. Head coach Robert Williams disputes those claims.
He called the narrative “false” though he did not provide much detail on the expected outcome of the situation.
Independence travelled to South Carolina for its first game of the year, which was also Williams’ debut as head coach. The game was suspended due to lightning in the first half. Byrnes led 7-0.
The game was unable to restart on Friday night. It did not continue on Saturday, and reportedly, will not be finished on Monday, either.
A South Carolina High School League rule could award Byrnes the win.
Williams posted the above message to social media on Friday after the initial game suspension. The note does not express any intention of continuing the game at a later date.
Independence High School is located in Charlotte, North Carolina. The Patriots travelled across the state line to Duncan, South Carolina for its season opener.
Duncan is positioned in Spartanburg County. The trip was about 100 miles, or about a two-hour bus ride.
Independence returned home at some point over the weekend. It did not attempt to finish the game on Saturday. It would seem likely that a discussion with Byrnes took place, and that it was mutually agreed upon. That may or may not have been the case.
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