I understand the reasoning behind the rule, but the job of HO should be to make decisions impartially on behalf of the SMJHL in situations where the SMJHL cannot be impartial. When those that benefit from the ruling (everyone except COL & STL) disagree with the ruling, the SMJHL HO should take a look at changing the precedent in this situation.

I'm not even suggesting reversing this decision. It's just clear no one wants to play by this rule, so why make us?