High school sports notebook: Dixie QB can play in semifinals after all

The Dixie Flyers will have quarterback Mike Sharp back for Thursday's 4A semifinal game at Rice-Eccles Stadium.

Though players cannot appeal an ejection, the UHSAA reviewed Sharp's ejection in the team's win against Bonneville in St. George at the request of the officials working the game, according to Mike Petty, supervisor of officials.

"The school did not appeal the ejection on behalf of the player," said Petty. "A discussion of the officials led to the review."

After UHSAA staff reviewed a number of tapes from different angles they opted to overturn Sharp's ejection.

The decision allows Sharp to play Thursday against Springville.

"In looking at the tapes," Petty said, "we felt that the actions didn't warrant an ejection. It was more of a reaction. He'd just been tackled, and there was basically a player laying across his stomach. It looks almost like he's pulling his hand away."

Petty said the movement, which looked more like a slap or a pulling away of his hand, could be interpreted in different ways. "We know we're not going to please everybody," he said.

SOFTBALL PLAYER COMMITS: Copper Hills softball player Mackenzy Derrick will sign to play for Mesa State College on Friday.

"Z has been a great leader by example, even as a freshman," said coach Shane Lucas of the infielder, who plays both third and shortstop. "Z is the type of teammate who finishes her team conditioning and then will run extra with the other girls so they won't have to run alone. She leads by doing her best and inspires her teammates to do the same."

The honors student is a three-year starter and three-year letter winner.

e-mail: adonaldson@desnews.com