The Connecticut Interscholastic Athletic Conference (CIAC) has defended its decision to disqualify Xavier High School junior Quentin Koch during the CIAC Boys Cross Country State Open in Manchester on November 5, 2026. Koch was removed from the race for wearing a heart monitor, which CIAC rules prohibit during competition.
Xavier coach Chris Stonier was seen discussing the ruling with an official after the disqualification. The CIAC maintains that its regulations differ from those of the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS), which may permit such devices under certain conditions. The conference stated that the rule is in place to ensure fair competition and athlete safety, and that the disqualification was applied consistently with established policy.
