LHSAA Granted Eligibility to Teurlings Catholic Quarterback
The state association overturned a previous ruling regarding the transfer of quarterback DJ Kelly.
Updated on Sept. 25, 2026 in Football
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The Louisiana High School Athletic Association has reversed its decision to bar Teurlings Catholic quarterback DJ Kelly from playing. Kelly, who transferred from Ascension Episcopal, was initially ruled ineligible over claims the move was for athletic purposes.
Why it matters
The ruling clears the way for Kelly to lead the Rebels offense following an appeal process that included a hearing in Baton Rouge and an in-home investigation. The decision provides a significant boost to a program currently navigating a difficult start to the season.
Teurlings Catholic enters the game with a 0-3 season record. The appeal for student-athlete eligibility was supported by a wave of correspondence including 200 emails submitted to the governing body.
The players
DJ Kelly
He is the quarterback for Teurlings Catholic who was recently cleared to play after a high-profile transfer eligibility dispute.
LHSAA
The Louisiana High School Athletic Association is the governing body responsible for overseeing secondary school sports in the state.
Teurlings Catholic
This is a private secondary school located in Lafayette that competes in state athletics.
Ascension Episcopal
This educational institution is the former school of DJ Kelly prior to his transfer.
Lafayette Christian
This school is the upcoming opponent for the Teurlings Catholic football team.
The details
The Kelly family successfully argued that their move to the northside of Lafayette was driven by religious reasons rather than sports, overcoming the initial athletic-intent finding. Following the successful appeal hearing on September 24, Kelly is now set to lead the team.
Timeline
Summer 2026: The LHSAA conducted an in-home visit with the Kelly family.
September 24, 2026: An eligibility appeal hearing took place in Baton Rouge.
September 25, 2026: The family received notification that the appeal was successful.
Season Trajectory
The return of a starting quarterback immediately alters the competitive expectations for Teurlings Catholic as they attempt to reverse their winless start. This adjustment shifts the team dynamic as they head into a pivotal matchup against Lafayette Christian.
DJ Kelly is expected to start under center for the Rebels in their upcoming game on September 25 against Lafayette Christian. This roster change provides the team with its primary play-caller for the remainder of the season.
The takeaway
Appealing eligibility rulings requires significant documentation and testimony to prove a change in residential status is not sport-related. Student-athletes and families facing transfer hurdles should ensure they have clear evidence for their relocation before initiating a formal hearing.
Further reading
For more updates on local sports, visit the /sports/football/ section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Advocate.
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