Justin Hornsby, who transferred from Rancho Verde to West Covina, while moving into the South Hills area of the Covina Unified School District, has been ruled ineligible by CIF to play varsity football until Aug. 2012.

Hornsby, a junior defensive end, figured to be one of the better defensive players in the area. When Covina Unified would not let him leave their district, he went to the county and got clearance. But CIF was another hurdle that Hornsby could not clear.

No word yet whether he will appeal the decision. West Covina opens the season on Sept. 3 against Covina.

Aram’s take: Big blow. The Bulldogs and Hornsby looked to be in the clear on this one, but CIF had other ideas. I imagine Hornsby will appeal and will need to come up with something good to gain eligibility. Remember, Charter Oak’s Chris Gilchrist and Aaren Vaughns, were originally ruled ineligible last season before winning their appeals. It’s not impossible. We’ll see how this plays out …