Bogalusa Mayor Wendy Perrette said last night she was disappointed at the decision of Albany High School to forfeit rather than play against Bogalusa High School this Friday.
Last week, the Louisiana High School Athletic Association (LHSAA) decided the game would be played at a “neutral” location, but Perrette worked with law enforcement and education officials to enact a security plan to alleviate LHSAA and Albany High School concerns. All involved signed an agreement to activate that plan, since the initial decision had been based on safety concerns, and LHSAA reversed its decision.
Late yesterday, Albany High School leaders announced their decision to forfeit.
Concerns stemmed from the Oct. 14 shooting death of a 15 YO Covington boy outside the BHS stadium during the school’s Homecoming game. The victim was also one of the gunmen, had a criminal record, was wanted on outstanding warrants, and was neither a Bogalusa resident nor a BHS student.
Perrette said their student athletes should have had a final game on their home field, with Senior Night being celebrated. She said she remains committed to the safety of the city and to the students of BHS, her alma mater.
Bogalusa will finish the season at 8-1, earning the Lumberjacks a first-round bye in the playoffs. Bogalusa is scheduled to host in the second-round of the playoffs, which would take place in three weeks on Nov. 18.
