Okanagan Sun get support in appeal

Photo: Wayne Moore - Kelowna - File Photo

The Okanagan Sun are receiving support in their appeal of the loss of a win for using an ineligible player

The Okanagan Sun are receiving support from across the country as they appeal the forfeiture of a game for using an ineligible player.

The Hamilton Hurricanes of the Ontario Football Conference, the other team at the centre of the controversy, has sent a letter to the Sun supporting their appeal of the loss of the game and $3,000 fine.

The Sun was stripped of its season opening 65-10 whitewash of the Chilliwack Huskers after it was discovered Curtis Kelly had dressed and played for the club despite not having his release from the Hurricanes.

Apparently, Kelly had played a handful of games with Hamilton last season before leaving the club.

The Sun contend they were told by Kelly that he had received his release upon signing him.

The Hurricanes, who alerted the CJFL after learning Kelly had played the season opener, stated in correspondence sent to the Sun they believe the infraction was more clerical in nature and a minor infraction.

They believe the forfeiture and fine should be overturned.

The BCFC Kamloops Broncos have publicly stated the same thing.

Meantime, an appeal on the loss of the game has yet to be heard while the Sun and BCFC office attempt to agree on who should hear the appeal.

The Sun, 3-1 after being stripped of the opening game win, continue to prepare to host the defending BCFC champion Langley Rams.

The Rams come into the game with the number one offence in the league average 53 points per game over their four victories.

Saturday's game between the Sun and Rams kicks off at 7 p.m. Saturday at the Apple Bowl.