Athletes Bear Brunt of Strife

The recent articles concerning the Montclair Prep football program have been very disconcerting. The allegations made by the “guardians” of Derek and Leland Sparks imply that the scandals of college sports have taken root in the smallest of high school athletic programs.

One aspect of the recent articles that I find intriguing concerns the concept of legal guardianship. Specifically, has either the L. A. Times, Montclair Prep, Mater Dei or the CIF Southern Section ever seen proof of Derek’s and Leland’s guardianship being transferred among the various guardians? Further, has it ever occurred odd that the guardianship would transfer so many times and so quickly in today’s legal environment without the courts questioning the motives of everyone involved?

Unfortunately, it appears that the real losers in this situation will ultimately be Derek and Leland Sparks. The values of making a commitment, honesty and integrity do not appear to have been exhibited by any, if not all, of the guardians and representatives of Montclair Prep throughout this ordeal. We can only hope that Derek and Leland have the fortitude to overcome this lack of leadership in the future.

MARK GORDON, Simi Valley