Edison High Coach Suspended Over Recruiting Violations

Tre’ Ford, the head coach of the Thomas Edison High School boys' basketball team, has been suspended for the remainder of the 2024-25 school year after it was revealed that several players who participated in a Virginia High School League-sanctioned summer tournament were not enrolled at Edison. Principal Mandy Burke initiated an investigation upon learning of the situation, which has raised concerns regarding the school's recruitment practices and player residency. While the assistant coach will take over as the acting head coach, the district continues to review allegations related to player recruitment and residency irregularities. This incident follows a recent football recruiting scandal at Hayfield Secondary School, leading to scrutiny over how Fairfax County Public Schools manages such violations. The controversy has prompted state lawmakers to introduce legislation aimed at preventing unethical practices in athletic recruitment. Critics argue that the inconsistent enforcement of rules undermines the credibility of the district's oversight of its athletic programs.