Seriously, "rules are rules?" Most states don't let kids stay in traditional school after they turn 20. Do you really think a parent is going to hold their child back so they will do better in sports? If anything, that would be likely to hurt their future career in sports. We are talking about a kid who isn't going to have anyone scouting him, nor is he going to be tackling someone and breaking their neck. Did you even look at his picture? My son has high functioning autism. He was held back one year--not two!--and will turn 19 during his senior year. He's already bigger than most high school seniors, but he's not interested in football and wouldn't understand the game anyway. Are they going to say he can't participate in state art competitions because of his age? Maybe he has better motor skills than a 16 year old and that gives him an advantage? Let's be realistic! Let the kid play!