The decision, issued by a Texas court, affirms the Texas Association of Private and Parochial Schools' authority to remove the team from the bracket. TAPPS governs athletics for hundreds of private and religious schools in Texas, and its playoff eligibility rules are binding on member schools.

The dispute centered on player eligibility, a recurring flashpoint in high school sports as families increasingly transfer between public and private campuses. TAPPS rules require member schools to certify that athletes meet residency and transfer requirements before competing in the postseason. When questions arise, the association can investigate and, if warranted, disqualify a team.

Argyle Liberty Christian had been ranked No. 1 in its TAPPS classification before the removal. The Warriors were considered a favorite to contend for a state championship, and their absence alters the playoff path for the remaining teams in the bracket.

School officials have not publicly detailed their next steps. Messages to Argyle Liberty Christian and TAPPS were not immediately returned.

The case highlights broader tensions over competitive balance and oversight in Texas private school athletics. TAPPS member schools agree to abide by association rules as a condition of membership, but disputes over eligibility frequently end up in court when schools believe they have been treated unfairly.

For families and athletes at Argyle Liberty Christian, the ruling means the season is over. For the remaining playoff teams, the bracket now opens up, with the top seed removed and a state title suddenly more within reach.

TAPPS has not announced whether it will comment further on the ruling or on any adjustments to the playoff schedule.