Aren't the kids wanting to transfer to ES rising sophomores? They won 2 JV games, but were competitive looking back at scores. The kids were protected by keeping them on JV according to the paper. For a young group they were successful in basketball with 12 or so JV wins, and as freshmen they were part of JV and Varsiry action. On top of that one of the kids played baseball on a team that went to the fourth round (best finish of any NW1A team). It doesn't seem like the year was that bad for the kids wanting to transfer.
From the outside looking in I would say someone has been in their ears (AAU coaches?) and/or the kids have been brainwashed by their disgruntled parents
I don't know the whole story but maybe putting what I've heard on here will bring more truth out.