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Updated: April 17, 2024 @ 8:38 am
The AIA has ruled to place both Desert Edge’s track and football programs on probation for the 2024-25 seasons. (File Photo)
The AIA has ruled to place both Desert Edge’s track and football programs on probation for the 2024-25 seasons. (File Photo)
The Desert Edge High School football and track programs have been put on probation following a decision by the Arizona Interscholastic Association’s Executive Board. The probation comes off a recent suspension of co-head coach Mark Carter for allegedly violating the AIA’s recruitment rule stemming from suspected social media posts.
Prior to the meeting, Carter’s suspension was a district decision made to avoid the repercussions such as the probation. Now with the decision being official, both programs will be ineligible for the playoffs in either sport.
The incident revolves around an alleged Facebook between Carter and a parent regarding where a student should attend school. Reports say that Carter responded with the recommendation of Desert Edge as a school that provided good athletic and academic possibilities.
According to the Peoria Unified School District, the initial report was made by Cactus High School — who saw the post — to Desert Edge, who then went to the Agua Fria High School District and promptly suspended Carter.
“There will be a change in the Desert Edge High School football program. Immediate steps are being taken to ensure the football program continues to operate smoothly and successfully,” said an official statement from AFHSD. “Coach Marcus Carter will continue to lead the Desert Edge football program for the upcoming 2024/2025 season and continue teaching. As Head Coach, he will maintain the team’s values, strategies and goals to guide our student athletes to excel both on and off the field.”
According to AFHSD, prior to the AIA’s decision Carter was initially reported to maintain his status with the track program and as a teacher.
The Carter brothers were hired in 2020 after building the South Mountain football program back to relevancy. Under the Carters, Desert Edge is 31-7 and has made the postseason every year.
This is a developing story.
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