The University Interscholastic League (UIL) has imposed significant penalties on the Lewisville boys basketball program and its former coaches due to multiple infractions. These violations included improper player recruitment and inaccuracies in eligibility documentation. The state executive committee placed the team on probation for two years and issued public reprimands. Additionally, former head coach Mario Martin and volunteer assistant coach Xavious Booker faced three-year suspensions from coaching within the UIL.

Penalties and Consequences of Rule Violations

The Lewisville High School boys basketball program encountered severe repercussions following an investigation into rule breaches. The UIL state executive committee mandated a two-year probation period and publicly censured the team. This decision followed recommendations from the 5-6A district executive committee. Former coaches Mario Martin and Xavious Booker were suspended from UIL activities for three years and required to seek approval from the committee to resume coaching.

These sanctions stemmed from allegations that included falsifying addresses, recruiting unenrolled players, and conducting unauthorized training sessions. Concerns were raised by Denton ISD regarding players moving out of the district after interactions with Lewisville’s coaching staff. The program was accused of inadequate verification of residences, inaccurate information on Previous Athletic Participation Forms (PAPFs), and holding practices at unauthorized times with both enrolled and non-enrolled players. The entire situation was deemed concerning by the UIL organization due to the lack of thoroughness and transparency.

Response and Self-Reporting of Violations

Lewisville ISD took proactive steps by self-reporting the violations, leading to the forfeiture of four games and placing the coaches on administrative leave. The district’s board of trustees subsequently terminated head coach Mario Martin. In response to the allegations, Martin acknowledged a lack of oversight but emphasized his commitment to compliance and ethical leadership. He highlighted his long-standing record of adherence to UIL rules over two decades.

Martin expressed regret over the autonomy granted to his coaching staff, which he attributed to avoiding burnout. He maintained that he did not engage in recruitment or solicit players from other teams. Despite these defenses, the severity of the violations led to the suspension of both Martin and Booker. The case underscores the importance of strict adherence to regulations in high school sports, as seen in similar incidents where championship titles were stripped and teams banned from playoffs.