RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — Virginia lawmakers are considering a bill that would change how high school athletes are deemed eligible to play sports across the state. The proposed legislation comes after former Varina High School athlete Darren Williams was benched by Henrico County Public Schools last year after officials questioned whether he lived full-time with his grandmother in the Varina district, despite remaining enrolled at the school. Months later, Williams transferred to St. James Academy, a private school in Springfield, Virginia. Varina High senior drops legal fight over sports eligibility, transfers to private school Under current Virginia High School League rules (VHSL), student-athletes are generally prohibited from transferring schools solely to play sports. Eligibility typically requires a bona fide change of family residence, and students who do not meet that requirement may face a 365-day period of ineligibility. Waivers and hardship exceptions are available through a formal appeals process. Senate Bill 220, introduced by Senator Mike Jones (Va-D), would require the VHSL to revise its rules so that enrollment in a public high school, rather than residency, determines athletic eligibility. If passed, any student enrolled in a public high school would be allowed to participate in that school’s sports programs, regardless of where they live. Thousands sign petition to reinstate Varina High student athlete “This is about the adults that get involved in it. It's about the coaches that get upset that a kid is leaving their school,” Jones said. “I could give a flip who wins the high school state championship. What I care about is a kid getting to college, getting a degree and then getting a good job.” Williams and his mother Lafaun Cain said the bill could prevent other students from facing similar situations. “I'm happy that this is happening,” Williams said. “If you want better for yourself and you feel like where you are is not good, you’re going to try to make the best move for yourself.” Henrico student athlete denied request to play due to residency dispute Cain said her son losing the opportunity to play was emotionally difficult and believes the proposed change is long overdue. “I'm still sort of grieving the situation, but I'm happy that Darren is in a much better place. And then prayerfully, you know, another child will not have to go through something like this,” Cain said. VHSL officials said they are aware of the legislation and are monitoring it as it moves through the General Assembly. The bill is scheduled for review by the Senate Education and Health Committee. ...read more read less