Bishop Montgomery High School in Torrance, California, has officially forfeited its entire 2025 high school football season after self-reporting major transfer violations to the California Interscholastic Federation–Southern Section (CIF-SS). The ruling is one of the most sweeping penalties in recent California high school football history, leaving the Knights with no games on the schedule this fall.
CIF-SS Investigation Into Transfer Scandal
The controversy emerged when CIF-SS determined that a local booster, Brett Steigh, was involved in improper player transfers. According to the investigation, Steigh provided payments to parents in order to influence their children’s enrollment at Bishop Montgomery.
CIF-SS found that at least five football players were ineligible due to these violations. Because the infractions involved multiple athletes and clear recruiting inducements, the federation ruled that Bishop Montgomery football must forfeit its entire 2025 season.
As part of the fallout, Bishop Montgomery dismissed its head football coach. CIF emphasized that even if coaches are not directly responsible for violations, schools are accountable for ensuring their athletic programs remain compliant.
Impact on California High School Football Players
The ruling is devastating for student-athletes, particularly seniors who hoped to showcase their talents in 2025. Without games, players will now need to rely on previous seasons’ film, recruiting camps, and showcases to attract college attention.
“It’s heartbreaking for the kids,” one parent said after the decision. “They worked hard all offseason, and now they don’t even get a chance to compete.”
CIF-SS Response and Statement
CIF-SS Commissioner Rob Wigod defended the forfeiture, stressing that the federation’s mission is to maintain fairness.
“Student-athletes deserve a level playing field,” Wigod said. “When violations occur, we must act to preserve fairness across our member schools.”
Bishop Montgomery issued its own statement, calling the situation “deeply saddening” but reaffirming its commitment to accountability and compliance. The school also pledged to review and strengthen its policies to prevent future transfer scandals.
Broader Problem: Transfer Rules in California High School Football
Recruiting and transfer controversies have become an increasingly common issue in Southern California high school football. With programs competing for talent and visibility, CIF has stepped up enforcement of its strict rules.
The Bishop Montgomery football scandal is now one of the strongest examples of CIF’s willingness to impose full-season forfeitures when violations cross the line. The ruling not only punishes the program but also serves as a warning to other schools across the state.
What’s Next for Bishop Montgomery Football?
For now, the Bishop Montgomery Knights will continue practicing without a season. Seniors in the Class of 2025 have effectively seen their high school football careers end before a single snap.
Looking ahead, Bishop Montgomery will attempt to rebuild trust with CIF, its community, and its athletes, with hopes of returning to competition in 2026. However, the shadow of this CIF-SS transfer scandal will likely follow the program for years to come.
