Never gotten something like this before. Tried offering a scholarship and got this in response.  What's the reason for it?

"Coach:
Am I getting punk'd? Seriously, where is Ashton? You know that I can't approve that scholarship offer.  I know I don't want to explain that one to the boosters and I'm sure you don't either.  Does the kid have pictures of you with  co-eds or something?  Even if he did, no way - final answer.  I miss Regis."

Haha thats pretty interesting! It's also quite the coincidence that one of my teams I coach is Regis, although its a different world.

I suspect that he is too far below the standards for your team and level. Are you trying to sign a 1-year player who is a level below you?

yeah, the player is a 1-year guy.  I figured that might be the cause. he's rated in the 650's and I'm a B- prestige at DI.  I thought that'd still be within reason. I wanted to him instead of a walk-on so I could rollover my extra money... so much for that though

Which search did he show up on?  From my past experience you can usually do DII guys from DI, but not DIII.  Maybe you're high enough some DII guys won't fly.