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John Patterson coached high school and college football for more than 25 years without a speck on his reputation for integrity and honesty.
Now, the coach of the Charleston SandSharks is hoping his reputation can survive one season in the National Indoor Football League.
Patterson said Thursday he is "outraged" by the NIFL's ruling, announced on the league's web site on Tuesday, that the SandSharks used "at least six" ineligible players in last Saturday's 39-28 win over the Montgomery Maulers. The NIFL declared the game a forfeit loss for the SandSharks, and Maulers officials were quoted as saying the SandSharks "loaded up" with "extra players" for the game.
In a statement provided to The Post and Courier on Thursday, Patterson said he "has received no confirmation from either the league or team management of any such ruling by the league." He also said he "categorically denies that any rules infraction occurred."
SandSharks president Rick Johnson said, "I'm beyond furious. This is bogus, this is totally incorrect, and we will get answers."
Charleston player Scooter...