Long Island Runner Zariel Macchia Cleared to Compete in State Championship After Court Ruling

A Suffolk County judge ruled that the high school track star can participate in Saturday's state meet despite a prior eligibility ban over a rule violation.

Zariel Macchia, an 18-year-old William Floyd High School senior and six-time state champion, was initially declared ineligible for the indoor state championships due to a violation of the NYSPHSAA's 'College Rule.'
The 'College Rule' prohibits high school athletes from competing against college athletes during their season; Macchia competed in a Boston University race where some participants represented colleges.
Macchia filed a lawsuit arguing the ruling caused 'irreparable harm,' with the court ultimately deciding in her favor on Thursday, allowing her to compete in Saturday's meet on Staten Island.
The judge noted that Macchia lacked knowledge of the rule and emphasized the potential impact on her future opportunities, including college NIL deals, as a Brigham Young University commit.
The NYSPHSAA stated it will respect the court's decision, while Macchia's family hopes the case will prompt broader reforms for fairness in high school sports regulations.